Cost to Run a Washing Machine 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 0.4 kWh each), a washing machine here costs $3.07 per month.
Per use
$0.14
0.4 kWh per use
Per day
$0.10
5 uses/week at 0.4 kWh each
Per month
$3.07
8.7 kWh
Per year
$36.81
104 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (3×/week) | 5.0¢ | $1.53 | $18.41 |
| Typical (5×/week) | $0.10 | $3.07 | $36.81 |
| Heavy (10×/week) | $0.20 | $6.13 | $73.63 |
California vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a washing machine in California?
At California's current average residential rate of 35.3¢/kWh (April 2026), a washing machine with typical usage costs about $0.10 per day, $3.07 per month, or $36.81 per year.
Is running a washing machine in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 88% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $3.07 per month here versus $1.63 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.