Cost to Run a Microwave in Virginia
Virginia's average residential electricity rate is 17.6¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 31st cheapest in the country, 4% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.47 per month.
Per hour
$0.19
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.8¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.47
8.4 kWh
Per year
$17.67
100 kWh
By usage level in Virginia
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.4¢ | $0.74 | $8.83 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.8¢ | $1.47 | $17.67 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | $0.10 | $2.94 | $35.33 |
Virginia vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in Virginia?
At Virginia's current average residential rate of 17.6¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.8¢ per day, $1.47 per month, or $17.67 per year.
Is running a microwave in Virginia more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Virginia's rate is about 4% below the U.S. average: $1.47 per month here versus $1.54 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Virginia right now?
Virginia residents pay an average of 17.6¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 31st cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.