Cost to Run a Microwave in Washington
Washington's average residential electricity rate is 15¢/kWh as of May 2026 — the 16th cheapest in the country, 18% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.25 per month.
Per hour
$0.17
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.1¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.25
8.4 kWh
Per year
$15.06
100 kWh
By usage level in Washington
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.1¢ | $0.63 | $7.53 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.1¢ | $1.25 | $15.06 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 8.3¢ | $2.51 | $30.11 |
Washington vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a microwave in Washington?
At Washington's current average residential rate of 15¢/kWh (May 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.1¢ per day, $1.25 per month, or $15.06 per year.
Is running a microwave in Washington more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Washington's rate is about 18% below the U.S. average: $1.25 per month here versus $1.54 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Washington right now?
Washington residents pay an average of 15¢ per kWh as of May 2026 — the 16th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.