Cost to Run a 3D Printer in California
California's average residential electricity rate is 35.3¢/kWh as of April 2026 — the 50th cheapest in the country, 88% above the U.S. average. At typical usage (3 uses/week at 0.6 kWh each), a 3d printer here costs $2.76 per month.
Per use
$0.21
0.6 kWh per use
Per day
9.1¢
3 uses/week at 0.6 kWh each
Per month
$2.76
7.8 kWh
Per year
$33.13
94 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2×/week) | 4.5¢ | $1.38 | $16.57 |
| Typical (3×/week) | 9.1¢ | $2.76 | $33.13 |
| Heavy (6×/week) | $0.18 | $5.52 | $66.26 |
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 35.3¢/kWh (April 2026), a 3d printer with typical usage costs about 9.1¢ per day, $2.76 per month, or $33.13 per year.
Is running a 3d printer in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 88% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.76 per month here versus $1.47 nationally.
What does electricity cost in California right now?
California residents pay an average of 35.3¢ per kWh as of April 2026 — the 50th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.