Due to the large electric bills here in Calif, we decided to run the a/c less this year and yet our bill has gone up 3 times. Home is only 1850 sq ft. Neighbors with larger homes using a/c all the time and paying less.

You need to have the A/C checked for the proper refrigerant charge this will cause it to run more and be inefficient, ask service person to wash condenser, change filter and check duct work in attic to insure no disconnected duct work. Mike

Thanks. Got the a/c guy coming on Monday. Filter has been changed and the ducts are connected.

Thanks again Mike. The thing that is so goofy is the house cools down just fine and we are running the air conditioner less than last year. Here's an example. Electric bill:

April $100
May $110
June $220
July $530... yikes... we actually feel we ran the a/c as much in June as July.

You might try taking a water hose to the outdoor unit and washing it even if it does not look dirty. Good luck.
Have the meter checked, sounds way out of line.