Cost to Run a Washing Machine in California
California's average residential electricity rate is 33.6¢/kWh as of July 2026 — the 50th cheapest in the country, 84% above the U.S. average. At typical usage (5 uses/week at 0.4 kWh each), a washing machine here costs $2.92 per month.
Per use
$0.13
0.4 kWh per use
Per day
$0.10
5 uses/week at 0.4 kWh each
Per month
$2.92
8.7 kWh
Per year
$35.04
104 kWh
By usage level in California
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (3×/week) | 4.8¢ | $1.46 | $17.52 |
| Typical (5×/week) | $0.10 | $2.92 | $35.04 |
| Heavy (10×/week) | $0.19 | $5.84 | $70.08 |
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 33.6¢/kWh (July 2026), a washing machine with typical usage costs about $0.10 per day, $2.92 per month, or $35.04 per year.
Is running a washing machine in California more expensive than average?
Yes. California's electricity costs about 84% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.92 per month here versus $1.59 nationally.
What does electricity cost in California right now?
California residents pay an average of 33.6¢ per kWh as of July 2026 — the 50th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.