Electricity cost calculator
What does it cost to run? What could you save? Start with the question you want to answer.
We’ll choose the right inputs: watts, yearly kWh, or energy per cycle.
Know your watts? Calculate below.
1. Enter usage 2. Check your rate 3. See the cost instantly
Your usage
Example inputsResults update as you type. All costs are in U.S. dollars. See result ↓
For your own rate, add per-kWh supply and delivery charges; leave out fixed fees. Find it on your bill →
Example result — edit inputs to match your use
Estimated electricity cost120 kWh per month at 18.31¢/kWh
(1000 W ÷ 1,000) × 4 h × 30 days × 100% × $0.1831 = $21.97At these watts and active time: $0.18 per scheduled hour.
Daily is one day of use. Annual repeats your monthly schedule 12 times (not a 365-day forecast). Rates are held constant. Actual use may vary.
↑ Edit inputsA better estimate for each appliance
The right inputs make all the difference.
Two ways to see the bigger picture
Is off-peak electricity really cheaper?
Compare flat and time-of-use plans, include fixed fees, and find your break-even peak share.
Compare time-of-use rates →Bill comparisonWhy did my electric bill go up?
Separate billing days, daily energy use, electricity prices, and other charges.
Analyze a bill change →Power × time × rate.
Watts measure power. Kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure how much electricity you use over time. Your utility charges for that energy.
For example, 1,000 W × 4 hours × 30 days uses 120 kWh. At an example 20¢/kWh, that costs $24 per month.
Which rate should I enter?
For the cost of running one more appliance, use your bill’s applicable per-kWh supply and delivery charges. A total bill divided by kWh also spreads fixed fees across energy, so it may overstate the extra cost.
A state average is a useful starting point, but it is not a utility offer or a quote for your address.
Explore all 50 states and DCPractical energy guides
How to Find Your Electricity Rate on Your Bill
Find the right cents-per-kWh rate for an appliance calculator. Separate supply, delivery, fixed fees, and time-of-use charges with a worked bill example.
Heating costsHow Much Does a 1,500-Watt Space Heater Cost to Run?
See hourly and monthly costs for a 1,500W heater at three example rates, how thermostat cycling changes the math, and when shorter use saves money.
Appliance decisionsWill Replacing Your Old Refrigerator Actually Save Money?
Use annual EnergyGuide kWh and measured old-fridge energy to estimate refrigerator savings, compare local rates, and calculate a simple replacement payback.