Interactive U.S. Electricity Rate Map
Explore residential electricity pricing tiers (¢/kWh) and average monthly household utility expenses across all 50 states + DC.
National Rate Dispersion & Geography
U.S. residential electricity prices vary widely by geography, with rates spanning from under 11¢/kWh in low-cost hydro and fossil-producing states to over 40¢/kWh in island and remote grids.
State-to-state differences stem from four primary cost drivers: regional generation fuel mix (hydropower, nuclear, natural gas, coal, renewables), transmission infrastructure density, state regulatory market structure (regulated monopolies vs. retail choice), and state clean energy transition riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are the state electricity rate tiers defined on the map?
State electricity rates (¢/kWh) are categorized into five visual color tiers: Lowest (<13.0¢/kWh), Below Average (13.0¢–16.4¢/kWh), Moderate (16.5¢–19.9¢/kWh), Above Average (20.0¢–25.9¢/kWh), and Highest (26.0¢+/kWh). Rates are derived from the latest monthly EIA-861M residential retail sales reports.
Which U.S. states have the lowest electricity rates?
States in the Northwest (like Washington and Idaho) and Northern Plains (like North Dakota and Nebraska) consistently enjoy the lowest electricity rates (often under 12¢/kWh) due to low-cost hydroelectric dams, abundant wind generation, and mine-mouth power plants.
Why are electricity rates in Hawaii, California, and New England so high?
Hawaii relies heavily on imported fuel oil shipped across the Pacific. California rates reflect extensive wildfire mitigation undergrounding, grid modernization, and renewable transition investments. New England faces natural gas pipeline capacity constraints during peak winter heating periods.