Last updated: March 2026
What Is the Electricity Rate Comparison?
The Electricity Rate Comparison tool lets you see how your electricity rate stacks up against your state average, the national average of $0.16/kWh, and every other state in the country. Residential electricity rates in the United States range from $0.11/kWh in states like Idaho and Washington to $0.43/kWh in Hawaii — a nearly 4x difference that can mean hundreds of dollars per month on the same usage.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average American household uses about 886 kWh of electricity per month. At the national average rate, that translates to roughly $142 per month or $1,700 per year. But your actual costs depend entirely on where you live and what rate plan you are on.
How to Compare Electricity Rates
Start by finding your actual rate. Open your most recent electricity bill and locate the per-kWh charge. This is usually listed under "supply charges" or "energy charges." Some utilities bundle delivery and supply into one rate; others separate them. Add both together for your true cost per kWh.
Enter your state and rate above. The tool automatically fills in your state's average rate, but you can override it with your actual rate for a more accurate comparison. Your monthly usage defaults to the national average of 886 kWh — adjust this to match your bill for personalized results.
Review the comparison dashboard. You will see your monthly and annual costs, how they compare to your state and national averages, a ranking of all 50 states plus DC, a neighboring states comparison table, and a breakdown of what common appliances cost at your rate. If you are paying more than your state average, it may be time to explore alternative rate plans or providers.
Key Features
This tool includes current 2026 electricity rates for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The state ranking bar chart provides an instant visual of where your state falls on the spectrum, from the cheapest hydropower states in the Pacific Northwest to the most expensive markets in New England and Hawaii. The neighboring states comparison reveals whether crossing a state line could meaningfully change your energy costs — useful information for anyone considering a move or living near a state border.
The appliance cost breakdown translates abstract per-kWh rates into real dollar amounts for everyday activities: running your air conditioning, charging an electric vehicle, gaming, and doing laundry. These concrete numbers help you understand the true cost impact of your rate and make informed decisions about energy usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average electricity rate in the US?
The national average residential electricity rate is approximately $0.16 per kWh as of 2026. However, rates vary dramatically by state — from as low as $0.11/kWh in states like Idaho, Louisiana, Utah, and Washington to as high as $0.43/kWh in Hawaii. Your actual rate may differ from your state average depending on your utility provider, rate plan, and usage tier.
Why are electricity rates so different between states?
Electricity rates vary by state due to differences in energy sources (states with abundant hydropower like Washington tend to be cheapest), fuel costs, grid infrastructure age, regulatory environment, population density, and climate-driven demand. Deregulated markets (like Texas and Ohio) can offer more competitive rates but also more price volatility.
How do I find my actual electricity rate?
Check your most recent utility bill. Look for the “supply charge” or “energy charge” line, which shows your per-kWh rate. Divide your total electricity charges (excluding fixed fees and taxes) by your total kWh used that month. Some utilities use tiered pricing, so your effective rate may change based on how much you use.
What uses the most electricity in a home?
Air conditioning and heating typically account for 40-50% of home electricity use. Water heating is next at about 14%, followed by appliances (13%), lighting (9%), and electronics (7%). Running central AC for 8 hours a day can use around 360 kWh per month alone, costing $36-$155 depending on your rate.
Can I switch electricity providers to get a better rate?
In deregulated states — including Texas, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and several others — you can shop among competitive electricity providers for better rates. In regulated states, your utility is assigned based on your location. Even in regulated states, you may have options for community solar, green energy plans, or time-of-use rates that could lower your effective cost.