⚡ Electricity rates in California (2026)
Average price: 31¢/kWh — above the national average (+88% vs. the U.S. average). Typical bill ~$167/month.
Estimate your bill in California
California electric bill estimator
Starts from the California average bill.
☀️ Would solar pay off in California?
With California's rates and sunlight, a typical home solar system has an estimated payback of 8.6 years and could save about $32,305 over 25 years (after the 30% federal tax credit).
See California solar savings →Electricity bills in California cities
| City | Population | Est. monthly bill |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 3,822,238 | $147 |
| San Diego | 1,381,162 | $147 |
| San Jose | 971,233 | $154 |
| San Francisco | 808,988 | $154 |
| Fresno | 545,716 | $154 |
| Sacramento | 526,384 | $154 |
| Long Beach | 449,553 | $161 |
| Oakland | 430,553 | $161 |
| Bakersfield | 410,647 | $161 |
| Anaheim | 344,461 | $161 |
| Riverside | 316,619 | $161 |
| Santa Ana | 308,262 | $161 |
California electricity FAQ
What is the average electricity rate in California?
About 31¢ per kWh — above the national average (+88% vs. the U.S. average of 16.5¢). The typical California household bill is around $167 per month.
Why is electricity expensive in California?
California's price reflects its generation mix, fuel costs, delivery charges, and regulation in the West. Households here use about 540 kWh per month on average.
How can I lower my electric bill in California?
Improve insulation and efficiency, shift heavy usage off-peak where time-of-use rates apply, and — if you're in a deregulated market — compare suppliers. Solar can cut the bill further; see the estimate below.