Cost to Run a Heat Pump Dryer 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 (5 uses/week at 1.3 kWh each), a heat pump dryer here costs $9.40 per month.
Per use
$0.43
1.3 kWh per use
Per day
$0.31
5 uses/week at 1.3 kWh each
Per month
$9.40
28 kWh
Per year
$113
339 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (3×/week) | $0.15 | $4.70 | $56.43 |
| Typical (5×/week) | $0.31 | $9.40 | $113 |
| Heavy (10×/week) | $0.62 | $18.80 | $226 |
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 33.3¢/kWh (May 2026), a heat pump dryer with typical usage costs about $0.31 per day, $9.40 per month, or $113 per year.
Is running a heat pump dryer in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 81% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $9.40 per month here versus $5.19 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.