South Carolina electricity prices
South region · residential average · EIA Electric Power Monthly March 2026
Residential electricity in South Carolina averages 16.45¢/kWh (EIA, March 2026), which is -11.4% versus the US average of 18.56¢ — close to the US average rate. That makes it the #24 of 51 state by price (1 = most expensive). At this rate, a home using 1,000 kWh in a month pays about $164 for energy, and a 1,500 W space heater run 8 hours a day costs about $19.74/month.
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential). Data as of June 2026.
South Carolina electricity price at a glance
| Figure | South Carolina |
|---|---|
| Residential price (EIA) | 16.45¢/kWh |
| Versus US average | -11.4% (US avg 18.56¢) |
| Price rank (1 = most expensive of 51) | #24 |
| Cost of 1,000 kWh/month | $164 |
Source: EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A (residential) (March 2026). Data as of June 2026.
Cost to run common appliances in South Carolina
Monthly cost at typical usage, at the South Carolina rate of 16.45¢/kWh, versus the US average:
| Appliance | In South Carolina | US average |
|---|---|---|
| Electric space heater | $19.74 | $22.27 |
| Central air conditioner | $46.06 | $51.97 |
| Electric water heater (tank) | $67.55 | $76.21 |
| Refrigerator | $8.23 | $9.28 |
| Electric clothes dryer | $8.23 | $9.28 |
| EV charging (home, Level 2) | $54.83 | $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 South Carolina rate.
How South Carolina compares
The five states with the closest electricity price to South Carolina:
| State | Residential ¢/kWh | vs US avg |
|---|---|---|
| South Carolina (this state) | 16.45¢ | -11.4% |
| Texas | 16.39¢ | -11.7% |
| West Virginia | 16.37¢ | -11.8% |
| Mississippi | 16.30¢ | -12.2% |
| Colorado | 16.74¢ | -9.8% |
| North Carolina | 16.00¢ | -13.8% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the electricity rate in South Carolina?
The average residential electricity price in South Carolina is 16.45¢ per kWh (EIA Electric Power Monthly, March 2026), which is -11.4% versus the US average of 18.56¢, close to the US average rate. It ranks #24 of 51 from most to least expensive.
Is electricity expensive in South Carolina?
South Carolina is around average on residential electricity at 16.45¢/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 South Carolina?
A 1,500 W space heater run 8 hours a day in South Carolina costs about $19.74 per month at 16.45¢/kWh, versus $22.27 at the US average. Use the calculator for other appliances.
What is the average electricity bill in South Carolina?
A home using 1,000 kWh in a month would pay about $164 for energy in South Carolina at 16.45¢/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