Gas vs Electric Stove Cost Calculator

Comparing gas vs electric stove running costs requires converting energy units and applying local utility rates. The two fuels are measured and priced in completely different units, which makes a direct comparison tricky without a calculator.

Electric stove cost formula: Cost = (Wattage / 1000) × Hours Used × Electricity Rate ($/kWh)

A standard electric burner uses 1,500–2,500W (1.5–2.5 kW). At the US average of $0.16/kWh:

• 2 kW burner × 1 hour = 2 kWh × $0.16 = $0.32 per hour

Gas stove cost formula: Cost = (BTU/hour / 100,000) × Hours Used × Gas Rate ($/therm) or for cubic feet: Cost = (BTU/hour / 1,000) × Hours Used × Gas Rate ($/MCF)

A typical gas burner runs at 5,000–18,000 BTU/hour. The calculator above uses 9,500, which is a common mid-size burner. At the US average of $1.20/therm:

• 9,500 BTU/hr burner × 1 hour = 0.095 therm × $1.20 = $0.114 per hour

Worked comparison (1 hour of cooking per day, 30 days):

• Electric: $0.32 × 30 = $9.60/month
• Gas: $0.114 × 30 = $3.42/month
• Gas saves roughly $6.18/month, or about $74/year in this scenario

But the real comparison is more nuanced:

• Gas is generally cheaper to run but requires a gas line connection
• Electric induction stoves are more energy-efficient (85–90% efficiency vs gas at ~40%)
• Induction is faster, safer, and easier to clean
• Installation cost for switching fuel types can be $500–$2,000+

Typical US annual stove running costs: Electric = $100–$200, Gas = $40–$90.