Cost to Run a Incandescent Bulb in Virginia
Virginia's average residential electricity rate is 17.6¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 31st cheapest in the country, 4% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (5 hours/day), a incandescent bulb here costs $1.61 per month.
Per hour
1.1¢
at 40–100 W
Per day
5.3¢
5 hours/day
Per month
$1.61
9.1 kWh
Per year
$19.27
110 kWh
By usage level in Virginia
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (2.5 hrs/day) | 2.6¢ | $0.80 | $9.64 |
| Typical (5 hrs/day) | 5.3¢ | $1.61 | $19.27 |
| Heavy (10 hrs/day) | $0.11 | $3.21 | $38.54 |
Virginia 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 Virginia?
At Virginia's current average residential rate of 17.6¢/kWh (May 2026), a incandescent bulb with typical usage costs about 5.3¢ per day, $1.61 per month, or $19.27 per year.
Is running a incandescent bulb in Virginia more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Virginia's rate is about 4% below the U.S. average: $1.61 per month here versus $1.68 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Virginia right now?
Virginia residents pay an average of 17.6¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 31st cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.