Cost to Run a Washing Machine 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 (5 uses/week at 0.4 kWh each), a washing machine here costs $1.41 per month.
Per use
6.5¢
0.4 kWh per use
Per day
4.6¢
5 uses/week at 0.4 kWh each
Per month
$1.41
8.7 kWh
Per year
$16.89
104 kWh
By usage level in South Carolina
| Usage | Per day | Per month | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (3×/week) | 2.3¢ | $0.70 | $8.45 |
| Typical (5×/week) | 4.6¢ | $1.41 | $16.89 |
| Heavy (10×/week) | 9.3¢ | $2.81 | $33.79 |
South Carolina vs. the rest of the country
Monthly cost at typical usage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a washing machine in South Carolina?
At South Carolina's current average residential rate of 16.2¢/kWh (May 2026), a washing machine with typical usage costs about 4.6¢ per day, $1.41 per month, or $16.89 per year.
Is running a washing machine in South Carolina more expensive than average?
No — it's cheaper. South Carolina's rate is about 12% below the U.S. average: $1.41 per month here versus $1.60 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.