Which state has cheaper electricity: California or Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $163.80 in Wisconsin vs $272.61 in California—about 66.4% less.

How much more expensive is electricity in California?

At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $108.81 more per month than in Wisconsin—roughly 66.4% 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 Wisconsin

Electricity in California costs approximately 66% more than in Wisconsin based on typical household electricity use. California averages 30.29¢/kWh and Wisconsin averages 18.20¢/kWh, putting a typical 900 kWh monthly bill at $273 vs $164.

Based on average residential rates from EIA data · 900 kWh standard usage benchmark

California rate

30.29 ¢/kWh

Wisconsin rate

18.20 ¢/kWh

California 900 kWh bill

$272.61

Wisconsin 900 kWh bill

$163.80

Comparison

State	Electricity rate	Estimated monthly bill
California	30.29 ¢/kWh	$272.61
Wisconsin	18.20 ¢/kWh	$163.80

Difference Summary

Electricity in California costs approximately 66% more than in Wisconsin based on typical household electricity use.

Difference: +$108.81 (+66.4%) at 900 kWh/month

Monthly Bill Comparison

California vs Wisconsin

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state has cheaper electricity: California or Wisconsin?: Wisconsin has cheaper electricity. At 900 kWh/month, the estimated bill is $163.80 in Wisconsin vs $272.61 in California—about 66.4% less.
How much more expensive is electricity in California?: At 900 kWh/month, electricity in California costs about $108.81 more per month than in Wisconsin—roughly 66.4% 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.