What is the average electricity cost in California?

The average residential electricity rate in California is 31.14 cents per kWh. At 900 kWh per month, that translates to an estimated monthly cost of $280.26.

Is electricity in California cheaper than the national average?

Electricity in California costs about $122.13 more per month than the U.S. national average when using 900 kWh.

How much does 900 kWh cost in California?

At the average rate of 31.14¢/kWh, 900 kWh costs approximately $280.26 per month, or about $3363.12 per year.

Electricity Cost in California

This page summarizes average residential electricity rates and estimated costs for California. All figures are based on EIA data and use a standard 900 kWh monthly usage for cost estimates.

Average rate

31.14 ¢/kWh

Est. monthly (900 kWh)

$280.26

Est. annual (10,800 kWh)

$3363.12

vs national (monthly)

+$122.13

National avg: 17.57¢/kWh

How California Compares

State rate

31.14 ¢/kWh

National average

17.57 ¢/kWh

Difference

+77.2%

Key Insights

Electricity in California costs 77% more than the national average.
California ranks #2 among U.S. states for electricity prices.
Electricity in California is among the top 10 most expensive in the U.S.
California shows an accelerating electricity price trend based on recent historical data.

More Data & Comparisons

See electricity cost-of-living analysis in California
Moving to California? See estimated electricity costs.
See electricity price history in California
Need usage-based estimates? Try the electricity cost calculator for California.
Interested in backup power? See battery recharge cost in California.
Compare battery recharge cost with generator operating cost in California.
Average electricity bill in California — Estimated monthly and annual bills
Full California knowledge page — Rates, value score, affordability, trends
West region — Compare with neighboring states
Rate rankings (high to low)
Rate rankings (low to high)
How much does 500 kWh cost? · 1000 kWh · 2000 kWh — Fixed electricity cost examples
Compare electricity prices between states — See state-to-state electricity comparisons
California vs HawaiiCalifornia vs ConnecticutCalifornia vs Rhode Island

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average electricity cost in California?: The average residential electricity rate in California is 31.14 cents per kWh. At 900 kWh per month, that translates to an estimated monthly cost of $280.26.
Is electricity in California cheaper than the national average?: Electricity in California costs about $122.13 more per month than the U.S. national average when using 900 kWh.
How much does 900 kWh cost in California?: At the average rate of 31.14¢/kWh, 900 kWh costs approximately $280.26 per month, or about $3363.12 per year.