Cost to Run a Microwave 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 (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $2.00 per month.
Per hour
$0.26
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
6.6¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$2.00
8.4 kWh
Per year
$23.99
100 kWh
By usage level in Illinois
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 3.3¢ | $1.00 | $11.99 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 6.6¢ | $2.00 | $23.99 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | $0.13 | $4.00 | $47.98 |
Illinois vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in Illinois?
At Illinois's current average residential rate of 23.9¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 6.6¢ per day, $2.00 per month, or $23.99 per year.
Is running a microwave in Illinois more expensive than average?
Yes. Illinois's electricity costs about 30% more than the U.S. average, so the same usage costs $2.00 per month here versus $1.54 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.