Cost to Run a Microwave in South Carolina
South Carolina's average residential electricity rate is 16.2¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 25th cheapest in the country, 12% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.35 per month.
Per hour
$0.18
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.5¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.35
8.4 kWh
Per year
$16.26
100 kWh
By usage level in South Carolina
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.2¢ | $0.68 | $8.13 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.5¢ | $1.35 | $16.26 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 8.9¢ | $2.71 | $32.52 |
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 16.2¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.5¢ per day, $1.35 per month, or $16.26 per year.
Is running a microwave in South Carolina more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. South Carolina's rate is about 12% below the U.S. average: $1.35 per month here versus $1.54 nationally.
What does electricity cost in South Carolina right now?
South Carolina residents pay an average of 16.2¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 25th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.