The average residential electricity rate in California (CA) is $0.3375 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is among the highest in the nation of $0.1805/kWh, ranking California #50 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average California household consumes 676 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $228 and annual electricity costs of about $2,736.
California has the third-highest electricity rates in the nation but below-average per-household consumption thanks to mild coastal climate and aggressive efficiency standards. The state generates more solar power than any other.
This comprehensive guide covers California electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
California residential electricity rates have increased 59% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | California ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.2122 | $0.1322 | +61% |
| 2022 | $0.2690 | $0.1492 | +80% |
| 2024 | $0.3100 | $0.1680 | +85% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.3375 | $0.1805 | +87% |
California has a deregulated electricity market. The primary delivery utilities are: Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E).
California generates electricity from: Natural gas 37%, Solar 22%, Wind 11%, Hydroelectric 10%, Nuclear 9%, Other 11%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average California household uses 676 kWh/month.
California TOU rates swing from 18-22 cents off-peak to 45-55+ cents on-peak (4-9 PM). Solar with battery storage is the most effective bill-reduction strategy. NEM 3.0 reduced solar export credits significantly, making batteries essential for new solar installations.
Universal strategies: adjust thermostat 2-3 degrees (saves 5-10% on HVAC), switch to LEDs (see our LED savings calculator), unplug phantom loads (saves $100-200/year), and run major appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing. For larger investments, consider a heat pump, better insulation, or a smart thermostat.
California receives 5.5 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~9,877 kWh/year, saving ~$3,333/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 4-6 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
| State | Rate ($/kWh) | Avg Bill | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (CA) | $0.3375 | $228 | Deregulated |
| Arizona (AZ) | $0.1340 | $168 | Regulated |
| Nevada (NV) | $0.1383 | $149 | Regulated |
| Oregon (OR) | $0.1218 | $117 | Regulated |
Data source: US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Electric Power Monthly, April 2026. Rates shown are average residential rates and may differ from your specific utility tariff. Solar estimates assume a 6 kW system with 82% efficiency factor. Always verify current rates with your utility provider.