Cost to Run a Microwave in Washington
Washington's average residential electricity rate is 14.4¢/kWh as of April 2026 — the 12th cheapest in the country, 23% below the U.S. average. At typical usage (0.25 hours/day), a microwave here costs $1.20 per month.
Per hour
$0.16
at 600–1,500 W
Per day
4.0¢
0.25 hours/day
Per month
$1.20
8.4 kWh
Per year
$14.45
100 kWh
By usage level in Washington
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (0.5 hrs/day) | 2.0¢ | $0.60 | $7.23 |
| Typical (0.25 hrs/day) | 4.0¢ | $1.20 | $14.45 |
| Heavy (0.5 hrs/day) | 7.9¢ | $2.41 | $28.91 |
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 14.4¢/kWh (April 2026), a microwave with typical usage costs about 4.0¢ per day, $1.20 per month, or $14.45 per year.
Is running a microwave in Washington more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. Washington's rate is about 23% below the U.S. average: $1.20 per month here versus $1.57 nationally.
What does electricity cost in Washington right now?
Washington residents pay an average of 14.4¢ per kWh as of April 2026 — the 12th cheapest rate of the 51 U.S. jurisdictions we track.