Cost to Run a Incandescent Bulb in Iowa
Iowa's average residential electricity rate is 16¢/kWh as of July 2026 — the 23rd cheapest in the country, 13% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (5 hours/day), a incandescent bulb here costs $1.46 per month.
Per hour
1.0¢
at 40–100 W
Per day
4.8¢
5 hours/day
Per month
$1.46
9.1 kWh
Per year
$17.52
110 kWh
By usage level in Iowa
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2.5 hrs/day) | 2.4¢ | $0.73 | $8.76 |
| Typical (5 hrs/day) | 4.8¢ | $1.46 | $17.52 |
| Heavy (10 hrs/day) | $0.10 | $2.92 | $35.04 |
Iowa 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 Iowa?
At Iowa's current average residential rate of 16¢/kWh (July 2026), a incandescent bulb with typical usage costs about 4.8¢ per day, $1.46 per month, or $17.52 per year.
Is running a incandescent bulb in Iowa more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Iowa's rate is about 13% below the U.S. average: $1.46 per month here versus $1.67 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Iowa right now?
Iowa residents pay an average of 16¢ per kWh as of July 2026 — the 23rd cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.