Cost to Run a Heat Pump Dryer 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 (5 uses/week at 1.3 kWh each), a heat pump dryer here costs $9.96 per month.
Per use
$0.46
1.3 kWh per use
Per day
$0.33
5 uses/week at 1.3 kWh each
Per month
$9.96
28 kWh
Per year
$120
339 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (3×/week) | $0.16 | $4.98 | $59.82 |
| Typical (5×/week) | $0.33 | $9.96 | $120 |
| Heavy (10×/week) | $0.66 | $19.93 | $239 |
California vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a heat pump dryer in California?
At California's current average residential rate of 35.3¢/kWh (April 2026), a heat pump dryer with typical usage costs about $0.33 per day, $9.96 per month, or $120 per year.
Is running a heat pump dryer in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 88% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $9.96 per month here versus $5.31 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.