How much more expensive is electricity in California?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $140.76 more per month than in Virginia—roughly 88.8% higher.

Why do electricity prices vary between states?

Electricity prices vary due to generation mix (coal, gas, nuclear, renewables), transmission costs, regulations, taxes, and demand. States with more hydropower or natural gas often have lower rates; those relying on imported power or with higher renewable mandates may have higher rates.

Electricity Cost: California vs Virginia

Electricity costs about 89% more in California than in Virginia. A typical monthly bill runs about $299 in California vs $158 in Virginia.

Based on average residential rates from EIA data · 900 kWh of monthly use

California rate

33.25 ¢/kWh

Virginia rate

17.61 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$299.25

Virginia 900 kWh bill

$158.49

Is electricity cheaper in California or Virginia?

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	33.25 ¢/kWh	$299.25
Virginia	17.61 ¢/kWh	$158.49

What the difference adds up to

At a typical 900 kWh a month, a household in California pays about $140.76 more than one in Virginia — about 89% higher, or roughly $1689 a year for the same electricity.

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electricity cheaper in California or Virginia?: Virginia has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $158.49 in Virginia vs $299.25 in California—about 88.8% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $140.76 more per month than in Virginia—roughly 88.8% higher.
Why do electricity prices vary between states?: Electricity prices vary due to generation mix (coal, gas, nuclear, renewables), transmission costs, regulations, taxes, and demand. States with more hydropower or natural gas often have lower rates; those relying on imported power or with higher renewable mandates may have higher rates.