North Carolina electricity prices
South region · residential average · EIA Electric Power Monthly March 2026
Residential electricity in North Carolina averages 16.00¢/kWh (EIA, March 2026), which is -13.8% versus the US average of 18.56¢ — close to the US average rate. That makes it the #28 of 51 state by price (1 = most expensive). At this rate, a home using 1,000 kWh in a month pays about $160 for energy, and a 1,500 W space heater run 8 hours a day costs about $19.20/month.
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential). Data as of June 2026.
North Carolina electricity price at a glance
| Figure | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Residential price (EIA) | 16.00¢/kWh |
| Versus US average | -13.8% (US avg 18.56¢) |
| Price rank (1 = most expensive of 51) | #28 |
| Cost of 1,000 kWh/month | $160 |
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential) (March 2026). Data as of June 2026.
Cost to run common appliances in North Carolina
Monthly cost at typical usage, at the North Carolina rate of 16.00¢/kWh, versus the US average:
| Appliance | In North Carolina | US average |
|---|---|---|
| Electric space heater | $19.20 | $22.27 |
| Central air conditioner | $44.80 | $51.97 |
| Electric water heater (tank) | $65.70 | $76.21 |
| Refrigerator | $8.00 | $9.28 |
| Electric clothes dryer | $8.00 | $9.28 |
| EV charging (home, Level 2) | $53.33 | $61.87 |
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential) (March 2026); DOE/ENERGY STAR typical wattage. Data as of June 2026.
Use the calculator to price any of the 36 appliances at the North Carolina rate.
How North Carolina compares
The five states with the closest electricity price to North Carolina:
| State | Residential ¢/kWh | vs US avg |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (this state) | 16.00¢ | -13.8% |
| Mississippi | 16.30¢ | -12.2% |
| West Virginia | 16.37¢ | -11.8% |
| Texas | 16.39¢ | -11.7% |
| Arizona | 15.59¢ | -16.0% |
| South Carolina | 16.45¢ | -11.4% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the electricity rate in North Carolina?
The average residential electricity price in North Carolina is 16.00¢ per kWh (EIA Electric Power Monthly, March 2026), which is -13.8% versus the US average of 18.56¢, close to the US average rate. It ranks #28 of 51 from most to least expensive.
Is electricity expensive in North Carolina?
North Carolina is around average on residential electricity at 16.00¢/kWh, close to the US average rate. Your actual rate depends on your utility and plan; check your bill for your exact price per kWh.
How much does it cost to run a space heater in North Carolina?
A 1,500 W space heater run 8 hours a day in North Carolina costs about $19.20 per month at 16.00¢/kWh, versus $22.27 at the US average. Use the calculator for other appliances.
What is the average electricity bill in North Carolina?
A home using 1,000 kWh in a month would pay about $160 for energy in North Carolina at 16.00¢/kWh, before fixed charges, taxes and fees. Typical US household use is around 850 to 950 kWh/month.
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Sources & accuracy
Price: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential) (March 2026), residential average, US public domain. This is a statewide average — your utility's rate, plan and time-of-use pricing can differ. Appliance costs use DOE/ENERGY STAR typical wattage and are estimates (see methodology). Verify with your own bill before relying on these figures.
Last updated: 2026-06-20