How Much Is the Average Electric Bill?
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
The average electric bill varies across the U.S. due to factors like weather, appliance usage, and energy rates. Here's a breakdown of costs and tips to help you save!
1. Average U.S. Electric Bill by State
| State | Cost per kWh | Average Monthly Bill |
|-------------------|------------------|--------------------------|
| Alabama | 12.96¢ | $147.75 |
| California | 22.82¢ | $123.67 |
| Florida | 11.90¢ | $130.40 |
| Hawaii | 33.49¢ | $177.78 |
| Texas | 12.11¢ | $132.40 |
| New York | 19.48¢ | $116.70 |
| Colorado | 13.07¢ | $91.96 |
| National Average | 16.00¢ | $121.00 |
Note: Hawaii typically has the highest electric bills due to high rates, while Utah and Colorado enjoy lower costs.
2. Factors Impacting Electric Bills
a. Extreme Weather
- Hot summers and cold winters increase HVAC usage, driving up bills.
b. Energy Vampire Devices
- Devices like TVs, gaming consoles, and coffee makers use energy even in standby mode.
c. Outdated Appliances
- Older models use significantly more electricity compared to modern, energy-efficient ones.
d. Traditional Light Bulbs
- Incandescent bulbs use 90% more energy than LED alternatives.
3. Appliances That Use the Most Energy
| Appliance/System | Percentage of Energy Use |
|-----------------------|------------------------------|
| HVAC Systems | ~47% |
| Water Heater | ~14% |
| Washer & Dryer | ~13% |
| Lighting | ~12% |
| Refrigerators | ~4% |
4. Tips to Reduce Your Electric Bill
a. Switch to LED Bulbs
- Save $225 per year by replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs.
b. Unplug Devices When Not in Use
- Turn off or unplug electronics like TVs, coffee makers, and chargers.
c. Adjust Your Thermostat
- Lowering it by 7–10°F for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% annually.
d. Install Solar Panels
- While the upfront cost ranges from $18,000–$35,000, they can significantly reduce energy costs over time.
e. Conduct an Energy Audit
- Hire a professional ($200–$700) to identify air leaks, HVAC inefficiencies, and other energy wasters.
5. Peak and Low Seasons for Energy Use
- Peak Seasons: Summer and winter, due to heating and cooling.
- Low Seasons: Spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate.
Summing it up
By upgrading appliances, switching to LED lighting, and using smart energy habits, you can significantly reduce your monthly electric bill while making your home more eco-friendly!
