Cost to Run a 3D Printer in California
California's average residential electricity rate is 33.3¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 50th cheapest in the country, 81% above the U.S. average. At typical usage (3 uses/week at 0.6 kWh each), a 3d printer here costs $2.60 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
$2.60
7.8 kWh
Per year
$31.25
94 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2×/week) | 4.3¢ | $1.30 | $15.63 |
| Typical (3×/week) | 8.6¢ | $2.60 | $31.25 |
| Heavy (6×/week) | $0.17 | $5.21 | $62.51 |
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 33.3¢/kWh (May 2026), a 3d printer with typical usage costs about 8.6¢ per day, $2.60 per month, or $31.25 per year.
Is running a 3d printer in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 81% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.60 per month here versus $1.44 nationally.
What does electricity cost in California right now?
California residents pay an average of 33.3¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 50th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.