California electricity rates and average bill

In August 2026, the average residential price in California was 29.75¢ per kWh, lower than a year earlier (30.92¢).

Source: EIA Table 5.6.A (August 2026, preliminary) and EIA 2024 averages. Checked 2026-10-29.

California electricity prices, month by month

So far in 2026 (8 months), California has averaged 32.93¢ per kWh, +6.0% compared with the same months of 2025 (31.08¢). Over the last 12 months the price was highest in April 2026 (35.29¢) and lowest in August 2026 (29.75¢).

Why is my electric bill so high in California?

• Price: California homes paid 29.75¢ per kWh in August 2026, −3.8% from August 2025 (+6.0% for 2026 so far). The U.S. average changed +3.4%.
• Season: the price itself moves through the year, from 29.75¢ in August to 35.29¢ in April, on top of the extra heating or cooling you use.
• Use: a typical California home uses about 503 kWh a month (2024). Compare your bill with that, and with the same month last year rather than last month.

Enter two of your bills to see how much is price and how much is use →

Average electric bill in California

A typical California home used 503 kWh a month in 2024 (U.S.: 863 kWh). At the August 2026 price that is about $150 a month, compared with $156 at the August 2025 price — a decrease of $6 for the same use. EIA's actual 2024 average bill was $160.86.

What common appliances cost to run in California

At 29.75¢ per kWh. Wattages are typical values from the U.S. Department of Energy.

Calculate any appliance · Space heater cost in California

Nearby states (Pacific)

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