Cost to Run a 3D Printer in California
California's average residential electricity rate is 33.6¢/kWh as of July 2026 — the 50th cheapest in the country, 84% above the U.S. average. At typical usage (3 uses/week at 0.6 kWh each), a 3d printer here costs $2.63 per month.
Per use
$0.20
0.6 kWh per use
Per day
8.6¢
3 uses/week at 0.6 kWh each
Per month
$2.63
7.8 kWh
Per year
$31.54
94 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2×/week) | 4.3¢ | $1.31 | $15.77 |
| Typical (3×/week) | 8.6¢ | $2.63 | $31.54 |
| Heavy (6×/week) | $0.17 | $5.25 | $63.07 |
California vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a 3d printer in California?
At California's current average residential rate of 33.6¢/kWh (July 2026), a 3d printer with typical usage costs about 8.6¢ per day, $2.63 per month, or $31.54 per year.
Is running a 3d printer in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 84% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.63 per month here versus $1.43 nationally.
What does electricity cost in California right now?
California residents pay an average of 33.6¢ per kWh as of July 2026 — the 50th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.