The electricity rate comparison shows average residential electricity rates for all 50 US states. Enter your monthly kWh usage to estimate your bill and compare your state to the national average. Rates are 2026 EIA data averages.
Estimate Your Bill
Rates vary by utility — check your bill for your actual rate. 2026 EIA averages.
Electricity Rates by State (2026)
National avg: 16.0¢/kWh| State | Avg Rate (¢/kWh) | Avg Monthly Bill | vs. National Avg |
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How to Compare Electricity Rates by State
Electricity rates vary dramatically across the US. A 900 kWh/month household pays about $90 in Louisiana but over $230 in Hawaii for the same usage. Understanding your state's rate helps you evaluate solar, efficiency upgrades, and energy plans.
Step 1: Find your average monthly usage
Check your electricity bill for kWh usage. US average is about 900 kWh/month. Homes in hot or cold climates with HVAC use more — 1,200-2,000 kWh/month is common. Small apartments may use as little as 300-500 kWh/month.
Step 2: Compare your rate
Your actual rate may differ from the state average. Utilities in the same state can vary by 20-30%. Time-of-use plans can save money if you shift usage to off-peak hours. Many states allow you to switch providers — compare rates on your state's PUC website.
When to consider solar
Solar payback periods are shorter in high-rate states. At $0.22/kWh (California), solar typically pays back in 6-8 years. At $0.10/kWh (Louisiana), payback takes 12-15 years. Use our Solar vs Utility comparison tool to run the numbers for your situation.
FAQ
Is this electricity rate comparison tool free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
What is the national average electricity rate in 2026?
The US national average residential electricity rate is approximately $0.16 per kWh in 2026. However, rates vary significantly by state — from around $0.10/kWh in Louisiana and Washington to over $0.25/kWh in Hawaii and California.
Which states have the cheapest electricity?
Louisiana, Washington, Idaho, and Oklahoma consistently have the lowest electricity rates due to abundant hydroelectric or natural gas resources. Washington state benefits from extensive hydroelectric dams. Louisiana has access to inexpensive natural gas.
Which states have the most expensive electricity?
Hawaii has the highest rates (often $0.35+/kWh) due to reliance on imported fuel. Connecticut, Massachusetts, California, and Rhode Island also have high rates due to infrastructure costs, regulatory requirements, and renewable energy mandates.
Why does electricity cost vary so much between states?
Rates depend on fuel mix (natural gas, coal, nuclear, hydro, renewables), infrastructure age, transmission distances, state regulations, renewable energy mandates, and local taxes. Deregulated states allow competition; regulated states have utility monopolies. Neighboring states can have dramatically different rates.