Cost to Run a Microwave in South Carolina
South Carolina's average residential electricity rate is 17.1¢/kWh as of April 2026 — the 29th cheapest in the country, 9% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.43 per month.
Per hour
$0.19
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.7¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.43
8.4 kWh
Per year
$17.16
100 kWh
By usage level in South Carolina
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.4¢ | $0.71 | $8.58 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.7¢ | $1.43 | $17.16 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 9.4¢ | $2.86 | $34.33 |
South 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 South Carolina?
At South Carolina's current average residential rate of 17.1¢/kWh (April 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.7¢ per day, $1.43 per month, or $17.16 per year.
Is running a microwave in South Carolina more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. South Carolina's rate is about 9% below the U.S. average: $1.43 per month here versus $1.57 nationally.
What does electricity cost in South Carolina right now?
South Carolina residents pay an average of 17.1¢ per kWh as of April 2026 — the 29th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.