Cost to Run a Microwave 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 (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.18 per month.
Per hour
$0.16
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
3.9¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.18
8.4 kWh
Per year
$14.15
100 kWh
By usage level in Iowa
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 1.9¢ | $0.59 | $7.08 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 3.9¢ | $1.18 | $14.15 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 7.8¢ | $2.36 | $28.31 |
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 14.1¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 3.9¢ per day, $1.18 per month, or $14.15 per year.
Is running a microwave in Iowa more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Iowa's rate is about 23% below the U.S. average: $1.18 per month here versus $1.54 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.