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Electricity rates in Illinois

Homes in Illinois pay an average of 19.89¢ per kWh, 8% above the national average of 18.34¢. Enter your bill to see where you stand.

Illinois average: 19.89¢/kWh
Avg monthly bill: $138
Past 12 months: +8.7%

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How Illinois electricity prices compare

Illinois ranks 36th cheapest of 51 (50 states plus D.C.) for residential electricity. At 19.89¢/kWh, it sits 8% above the national average of 18.34¢, and prices are up 8.7% over the past year.

The typical Illinois household uses about 694 kWh a month and pays around $138. Among Midwest states, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota have lower rates.

Rate: 19.89¢
vs U.S.: +8%
Avg usage: 694 kWh
National rank: 36th

To find your own rate, divide your total bill by the kWh you used. If you paid $138 for 694 kWh, you're right at the Illinois average.

Can you choose your electricity provider in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois has retail electricity choice. Your local utility keeps delivering power and handling outages, but you can buy the electricity itself from a competitive supplier. That supply charge is usually more than half of an all-in bill, so it's where switching pays off.

If you've never shopped, you're likely on your utility's default rate, often shown on the bill as the "price to compare." Before switching, check whether the rate is fixed or variable, the contract length, any monthly fee and the early cancellation fee. You can cross-check offers on Plug In Illinois, run by the Illinois Commerce Commission.

Main electric utilities in Illinois

Most Illinois homes are served by ComEd and Ameren Illinois. Your utility's name and account number are near the top of your bill.

How to lower your electric bill in Illinois

Compare fixed-rate supply plans. Households on the default rate often save 10–20% on the supply portion.
Ask your utility about time-of-use pricing. Shifting laundry, dishwashing and EV charging to off-peak hours can cut 5–15%.
Look at community solar. Illinois has community solar programs that credit your bill for a share of a local solar farm, often 5–15% savings with no rooftop panels.
Tackle heating and cooling first. A smart thermostat and sealed air leaks usually save more than any other single change.
Check for assistance programs. LIHEAP and utility discount programs can lower bills for eligible households.

Illinois electricity FAQ

What is the average electricity rate in Illinois?

The average residential rate in Illinois is 19.89 cents per kWh as of September 2026, 8% above the national average of 18.34¢.

What is the average electric bill in Illinois?

About $138 per month, based on average use of roughly 694 kWh.

Can I switch electricity providers in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois has retail electricity choice, so you can pick a competitive supplier while your utility keeps delivering power.

Who are the main electric utilities in Illinois?

The main utilities in Illinois are ComEd and Ameren Illinois.

Compare other Midwest states

Averages are EIA residential revenue divided by kWh sold, September 2026. Your rate depends on your utility, plan and season. See all 50 states.