Cost to Run a Electric Water Heater in Washington
Washington's average residential electricity rate is 15¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 16th cheapest in the country, 18% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (2.9 hours/day), a electric water heater here costs $59.51 per month.
Per hour
$0.67
at 3,500–5,500 W
Per day
$1.96
2.9 hours/day
Per month
$59.51
397 kWh
Per year
$714
4,763 kWh
By usage level in Washington
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (1.45 hrs/day) | $0.98 | $29.75 | $357 |
| Typical (2.9 hrs/day) | $1.96 | $59.51 | $714 |
| Heavy (5.8 hrs/day) | $3.92 | $119 | $1,429 |
Washington vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a electric water heater in Washington?
At Washington's current average residential rate of 15¢/kWh (May 2026), a electric water heater with typical usage costs about $1.96 per day, $59.51 per month, or $714 per year.
Is running a electric water heater in Washington more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Washington's rate is about 18% below the U.S. average: $59.51 per month here versus $73.00 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Washington right now?
Washington residents pay an average of 15¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 16th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.