California Electricity Cost Calculator
Estimate what an appliance costs per month in California. The rate is preloaded with the 2024 EIA average residential price of 31.97 cents per kWh. Change it to match your own bill.
California electricity rates and bills (2024)
The average California household paid 31.97 cents per kWh, which is 94% above the U.S. average of 16.48. It ranked number 2 out of 51 (50 states plus DC) from highest price. Customers used 503 kWh a month and paid $160.86, against 863 kWh and $142.26 nationally. In California, mild coastal climates and efficient housing keep use low even though the price is high. Source: EIA Table 5A, 2024 Average Monthly Bill, Residential.
Many California customers are billed on tiered or time-of-use rates, where an hour of use costs more at the evening peak than overnight, so the statewide average understates what an appliance costs at peak hours. Check your utility's rate plan page and whether you qualify for a discount program such as CARE.
How to calculate
Formula: monthly kWh = watts ÷ 1,000 × hours per day × days per month. Cost = monthly kWh × rate.
Worked example: 1,000 watts, 5 hours per day, 30 days, at the California average of $0.3197 per kWh. Monthly use = 150 kWh, monthly cost = $47.96. At the U.S. average the same use costs $24.72.
What common appliances cost per month in California
| Appliance | California avg rate | U.S. avg rate |
|---|---|---|
| Space heater (1,500 W, 5 h/day) | $71.93 | $37.08 |
| Window air conditioner (1,000 W, 8 h/day) | $76.73 | $39.55 |
| Ceiling fan (75 W, 8 h/day) | $5.75 | $2.97 |
| Electric dryer (3,000 W, 1 h/day) | $28.77 | $14.83 |
| Dishwasher (1,800 W, 1 h/day) | $17.26 | $8.90 |
More
See every state in the electricity rates by state table, or compare with Texas and Florida.
Related calculators
Frequently asked questions
How much does electricity cost per kWh in California?
The 2024 EIA average residential price in California was 31.97 cents per kWh. Your own rate depends on your utility and plan.
What is the average electric bill in California?
$160.86 per month in 2024, based on 503 kWh of average monthly use.
Is electricity in California cheaper than the national average?
No, the price is 94% above the U.S. average of 16.48 cents per kWh. The bill is above the national average of $142.26 because California households use less electricity.
Why is my bill different from this estimate?
These are statewide averages. Delivery charges, fixed fees, plan type, season and your own appliances change the real number, so check your bill.