The average residential electricity rate in Illinois (IL) is $0.1530 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is significantly below the national average of $0.1805/kWh, ranking Illinois #25 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average Illinois household consumes 765 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $117 and annual electricity costs of about $1,404.
Illinois has the most nuclear reactors of any US state (6 plants, 11 reactors) and generates more nuclear electricity than any other state.
This comprehensive guide covers Illinois electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
Illinois residential electricity rates have increased 20% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | Illinois ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.1275 | $0.1322 | -4% |
| 2022 | $0.1380 | $0.1492 | -8% |
| 2024 | $0.1480 | $0.1680 | -12% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.1530 | $0.1805 | -15% |
Illinois has a deregulated electricity market. The primary delivery utilities are: ComEd (Exelon), Ameren Illinois, MidAmerican Energy.
Illinois generates electricity from: Nuclear 53%, Natural gas 18%, Wind 16%, Coal 8%, Solar 4%, Other 1%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average Illinois household uses 765 kWh/month.
Illinois is deregulated. ComEd and Ameren customers can choose their electricity supplier. The state generates more nuclear power than any other state.
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.
Illinois receives 4.2 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~7,542 kWh/year, saving ~$1,154/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 6-9 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
| State | Rate ($/kWh) | Avg Bill | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois (IL) | $0.1530 | $117 | Deregulated |
| Indiana (IN) | $0.1440 | $153 | Regulated |
| Iowa (IA) | $0.1418 | $131 | Regulated |
| Kentucky (KY) | $0.1198 | $143 | Regulated |
| Missouri (MO) | $0.1228 | $139 | Regulated |
| Wisconsin (WI) | $0.1598 | $120 | 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.