Cost to Run a Microwave in Iowa
Iowa's average residential electricity rate is 13.9¢/kWh as of April 2026 — the 6th cheapest in the country, 26% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.16 per month.
Per hour
$0.15
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
3.8¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.16
8.4 kWh
Per year
$13.95
100 kWh
By usage level in Iowa
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 1.9¢ | $0.58 | $6.98 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 3.8¢ | $1.16 | $13.95 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 7.6¢ | $2.32 | $27.90 |
Iowa vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in Iowa?
At Iowa's current average residential rate of 13.9¢/kWh (April 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 3.8¢ per day, $1.16 per month, or $13.95 per year.
Is running a microwave in Iowa more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Iowa's rate is about 26% below the U.S. average: $1.16 per month here versus $1.57 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Iowa right now?
Iowa residents pay an average of 13.9¢ per kWh as of April 2026 — the 6th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.