Electricity Cost Per kWh by State
The average U.S. electricity rate is 16.6¢ per kWh, but prices range from 8¢ to 33¢ depending on where you live. Here's what you're paying compared to the rest of the country.
In This Guide
Electricity Cost Per kWh by State (2026)
Electricity prices vary dramatically across the United States. States with abundant hydropower, natural gas, or wind energy typically have the lowest rates, while island states and those relying on imported fuel pay significantly more.
| State | Rate (¢/kWh) | vs National Avg | Market Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | 33.2¢ | +100% | Regulated |
| California | 28.5¢ | +72% | Regulated |
| Massachusetts | 26.8¢ | +61% | Deregulated |
| Connecticut | 25.7¢ | +55% | Regulated |
| Rhode Island | 24.9¢ | +50% | Regulated |
| New Hampshire | 24.2¢ | +46% | Regulated |
| Alaska | 23.8¢ | +43% | Regulated |
| Vermont | 21.5¢ | +30% | Regulated |
| New York | 21.2¢ | +28% | Regulated |
| Maine | 20.8¢ | +25% | Regulated |
| New Jersey | 18.4¢ | +11% | Regulated |
| Pennsylvania | 17.2¢ | +4% | Deregulated |
| Michigan | 16.9¢ | +2% | Regulated |
| Maryland | 16.5¢ | -1% | Regulated |
| Ohio | 14.8¢ | -11% | Deregulated |
| Illinois | 14.5¢ | -13% | Regulated |
| Florida | 14.2¢ | -14% | Regulated |
| Arizona | 13.8¢ | -17% | Regulated |
| Colorado | 13.5¢ | -19% | Regulated |
| Georgia | 13.2¢ | -20% | Regulated |
| Virginia | 12.9¢ | -22% | Regulated |
| North Carolina | 12.6¢ | -24% | Regulated |
| Indiana | 12.4¢ | -25% | Regulated |
| Texas | 12.2¢ | -27% | Deregulated |
| Missouri | 12.0¢ | -28% | Regulated |
| Tennessee | 11.8¢ | -29% | Regulated |
| Kentucky | 11.5¢ | -31% | Regulated |
| Arkansas | 11.2¢ | -33% | Regulated |
| Louisiana | 10.8¢ | -35% | Regulated |
| Oklahoma | 10.5¢ | -37% | Regulated |
| Washington | 10.2¢ | -39% | Regulated |
| Idaho | 9.8¢ | -41% | Regulated |
| Utah | 9.5¢ | -43% | Regulated |
| Wyoming | 9.2¢ | -45% | Regulated |
| North Dakota | 8.9¢ | -46% | Regulated |
What Affects Your Electricity Rate
The price you pay per kWh isn't random—it's determined by a complex mix of factors from fuel costs to where you live. Understanding these can help you find savings opportunities.
Fuel Source
States relying on natural gas or coal typically have lower rates than those using oil or importing power.
Infrastructure Age
Older grid infrastructure requires more maintenance and upgrades, increasing costs passed to consumers.
Regulatory Environment
Deregulated markets often offer competitive rates, while regulated monopolies set fixed pricing.
Climate & Demand
Extreme temperatures increase peak demand, which can drive up rates especially in summer and winter.
Renewable Mandates
States with aggressive renewable energy requirements may have higher short-term costs during transition.
Population Density
Rural areas cost more to serve per customer, while dense urban areas spread infrastructure costs.
Transmission Distance
Power that travels long distances from generation to consumption loses energy and incurs costs.
Savings in Deregulated States
In deregulated electricity markets, you can choose your energy provider and often find rates significantly below the state average. Here's what's possible in states where we help customers compare rates:
Texas
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Why Deregulation Means Lower Prices
In regulated markets, you're stuck with your utility's rate. In deregulated markets, dozens of providers compete for your business, driving prices down. The catch? You have to actively shop and compare—the default utility rate is rarely the best deal.
How to Find Your Current Rate
Not sure what you're paying? Here's how to find your actual cost per kWh:
Check Your Electric Bill
Look for a line item called "Energy Charge," "Supply Charge," or "Price per kWh." This is your base electricity rate. Note that delivery charges and fees are separate.
Quick calculation: Total energy charges ÷ Total kWh used = Your rate per kWh
Texas: Check the Electricity Facts Label (EFL)
Texas requires providers to show your "all-in" rate at 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh usage levels. This includes all fees and gives you a true cost comparison.
Learn how to read an EFLConsider Your All-In Cost
Your actual cost per kWh includes more than just the energy rate. Add in:
- • Delivery/transmission charges (typically 3-5¢/kWh)
- • Base/customer charges ($5-15/month fixed fee)
- • Taxes and surcharges (varies by location)
How to Get a Lower Electricity Rate
Switch Providers
In deregulated states, comparing and switching to a new provider can save 20-30% instantly. Most switches are free and take 1-2 billing cycles.
Time Your Usage
Time-of-use plans offer lower rates during off-peak hours (nights, weekends). If you can shift laundry and dishwashing, you'll pay less per kWh.
Lock In a Fixed Rate
Fixed-rate plans protect you from price spikes. Lock in when rates are low (typically spring/fall) for 12-24 months of predictable pricing.
Reduce Usage
Some plans offer bill credits at certain usage thresholds. Upgrading to efficient appliances and improving insulation can move you into lower rate tiers.
Ready to Lower Your Rate?
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