Cost to Run a Incandescent Bulb in Illinois
Illinois's average residential electricity rate is 23.9¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 40th cheapest in the country, 30% above the U.S. average. At typical usage (5 hours/day), a incandescent bulb here costs $2.18 per month.
Per hour
1.4¢
at 40–100 W
Per day
7.2¢
5 hours/day
Per month
$2.18
9.1 kWh
Per year
$26.17
110 kWh
By usage level in Illinois
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2.5 hrs/day) | 3.6¢ | $1.09 | $13.09 |
| Typical (5 hrs/day) | 7.2¢ | $2.18 | $26.17 |
| Heavy (10 hrs/day) | $0.14 | $4.36 | $52.34 |
Illinois vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a incandescent bulb in Illinois?
At Illinois's current average residential rate of 23.9¢/kWh (May 2026), a incandescent bulb with typical usage costs about 7.2¢ per day, $2.18 per month, or $26.17 per year.
Is running a incandescent bulb in Illinois more expensive than average?
Yes. Illinois's electricity costs about 30% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.18 per month here versus $1.68 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Illinois right now?
Illinois residents pay an average of 23.9¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 40th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.