Cost to Run a Incandescent Bulb in Iowa
Iowa's average residential electricity rate is 14.1¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 8th cheapest in the country, 23% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (5 hours/day), a incandescent bulb here costs $1.29 per month.
Per hour
0.8¢
at 40–100 W
Per day
4.2¢
5 hours/day
Per month
$1.29
9.1 kWh
Per year
$15.44
110 kWh
By usage level in Iowa
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2.5 hrs/day) | 2.1¢ | $0.64 | $7.72 |
| Typical (5 hrs/day) | 4.2¢ | $1.29 | $15.44 |
| Heavy (10 hrs/day) | 8.5¢ | $2.57 | $30.88 |
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 14.1¢/kWh (May 2026), a incandescent bulb with typical usage costs about 4.2¢ per day, $1.29 per month, or $15.44 per year.
Is running a incandescent bulb in Iowa more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Iowa's rate is about 23% below the U.S. average: $1.29 per month here versus $1.68 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Iowa right now?
Iowa residents pay an average of 14.1¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 8th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.