Electricity rates in California

Updated with EIA data for August 2026

California electricity rates over time

Average rate, bill and usage by year

Rates are weighted by kWh sold. Bills and usage are averages per residential customer.

Rates by sector (August 2026)

How much does electricity cost in California?

At California's 12-month average residential rate of 32.34¢ per kWh, here is the energy cost for common monthly usage levels, next to the US average. Fixed customer charges, taxes and fees vary by utility and are not included.

California electricity prices month by month

Over the last 12 months, the average residential rate ranged from 29.75¢ (August 2026) to 35.29¢ (April 2026), and homes used the most electricity in August 2026 (789 kWh on average).

California vs neighboring states

California's 12-month average rate is higher than all of its neighbors.

What appliances cost to run in California

All appliance costs · Appliance cost calculator for California

Can you choose your electricity provider in California?

In California, most households buy electricity from their local utility at regulated rates, so shopping for a different supplier is usually not an option. The best ways to lower your bill are to reduce usage and check whether your utility offers time-of-use or other rate plans.

Solar snapshot

Each kW of solar panels in Los Angeles produces about 1,677 kWh a year (NREL PVWatts). Sized for an average California home, a 4.0 kW system would cost about $10,280 before any incentives and pay for itself in about 5.2 years. See the full California solar estimate.

Guides for California

Electric Bills

Why Electricity Prices Differ So Much by State

Electricity costs several times more per kWh in some states than others. EIA data shows how fuel mix, grid costs, regulation and climate drive the gap.

Nov 8, 2026 · 5 min read

Saving Energy

How to Lower Your Electric Bill: 12 Practical, Sourced Ways

Practical ways to lower your electric bill, from free thermostat and standby-power fixes to LEDs, insulation and rate plans, each backed by DOE, EPA or EIA guidance.

Nov 9, 2026 · 5 min read

Solar

Is Solar Worth It in 2026? What Changed After the Federal Tax Credit Ended

The 25D federal credit ended for systems installed after 2025. Here is what now decides whether solar pays off, and how to estimate your own payback.

Nov 9, 2026 · 6 min read

California electricity calculators

• Electric bill calculatorEstimate a monthly bill at California's average rate.
• Electricity cost calculatorCost of any number of kWh in California.
• Solar panel calculatorSystem size, cost and payback for a California home.
• EV charging costHome charging cost per mile in California.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Form EIA-861M monthly sales and revenue data. Latest month: August 2026. Recent months may be preliminary and revised by EIA. See how we calculate.