Cost to Run a Microwave in North Carolina
North Carolina's average residential electricity rate is 15.1¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 18th cheapest in the country, 18% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.26 per month.
Per hour
$0.17
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.2¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.26
8.4 kWh
Per year
$15.16
100 kWh
By usage level in North Carolina
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.1¢ | $0.63 | $7.58 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.2¢ | $1.26 | $15.16 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 8.3¢ | $2.52 | $30.31 |
North Carolina vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in North Carolina?
At North Carolina's current average residential rate of 15.1¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.2¢ per day, $1.26 per month, or $15.16 per year.
Is running a microwave in North Carolina more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. North Carolina's rate is about 18% below the U.S. average: $1.26 per month here versus $1.54 nationally.
What does electricity cost in North Carolina right now?
North Carolina residents pay an average of 15.1¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 18th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.