Cost to Run a Microwave in Alabama
Alabama's average residential electricity rate is 16.8¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 28th cheapest in the country, 9% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.40 per month.
Per hour
$0.18
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.6¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.40
8.4 kWh
Per year
$16.86
100 kWh
By usage level in Alabama
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.3¢ | $0.70 | $8.43 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.6¢ | $1.40 | $16.86 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 9.2¢ | $2.81 | $33.73 |
Alabama vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in Alabama?
At Alabama's current average residential rate of 16.8¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.6¢ per day, $1.40 per month, or $16.86 per year.
Is running a microwave in Alabama more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Alabama's rate is about 9% below the U.S. average: $1.40 per month here versus $1.54 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Alabama right now?
Alabama residents pay an average of 16.8¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 28th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.