Owning a home comes with many responsibilities, and one of them is ensuring that you have enough money to pay for all of your bills.
Utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet can add up quickly, and it can be difficult to budget for them without knowing what to expect.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at the average cost of utilities for a house per month and provide tips on how to reduce your bills.
What is the average cost of utilities for a house per month?
The average cost of utilities for a house per month is around $398 for homeowners and $202 for renters. This includes electricity, gas, water, and internet.
However, the exact cost can vary depending on location, usage, and the size of your home.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average monthly utility bill for a residential customer in the United States was $111.67 in 2019.
This includes electricity, natural gas, and water. However, in some areas, the cost can be significantly higher or lower.
For example, in Hawaii, the average monthly utility bill is around $300, while in North Dakota it is around $70.
What affects the cost of utilities for a house per month?
1. Size of the house:
The larger the house, the more energy it will require to heat and cool, which can lead to higher utility costs.
2. Location of the house:
Houses located in areas with extreme temperatures, such as hot and humid climates or cold and snowy climates, will typically require more energy to keep them comfortable, resulting in higher utility costs.
3. Type of heating and cooling system:
Homes that use electric heating and cooling systems will typically have higher utility costs than homes that use gas systems.
Additionally, older heating and cooling systems that are not energy efficient will also result in higher utility costs.
4. Energy usage habits:
Energy usage habits of the occupants of a house can also affect utility costs.
For example, if the occupants use a lot of electricity for appliances, lighting, and electronics, the utility costs will be higher.
On the other hand, if the occupants take steps to conserve energy, such as turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use, they can lower their utility costs.
5. Energy tariffs and taxes:
Energy tariffs and taxes also play a role in determining the cost of utilities for a house per month.
Some states have higher energy tariffs than others, which can result in higher utility costs. Additionally, taxes on energy usage can also increase the cost of utilities.
6. Time of usage:
Time of usage also affects the cost of utilities for a house per month.
Some tariffs can charge more for using electricity during peak hours of the day, and as a result, the cost will be higher.
The cost of utilities for a house per month can be affected by a variety of factors, including the size of the house, the location of the house, the type of heating and cooling system used, and the energy usage habits of the occupants.
Additionally, energy tariffs and taxes, and time of usage also play a role in determining the cost of utilities.
How To Reduce The Cost Of Utilities For A House Per Month?
There are several ways to reduce the cost of utilities for a house per month:
1. Insulation:
Proper insulation can help to keep the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
2. Energy-efficient appliances:
Replacing old appliances with Energy Star-rated ones can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
3. Lighting:
Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs and using natural light whenever possible can also help to lower energy consumption.
4. Weatherproofing:
Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors to prevent drafts and reduce the amount of air that needs to be heated or cooled.
5. Water conservation:
Installing low-flow showerheads and toilets, fixing leaks, and using water-saving strategies can help to reduce water bills.
6. Time of use:
Some utility companies offer time-of-use plans, where you pay different rates for energy depending on the time of day.
Shift heavy energy-using activities like laundry, dishwashing, and cooking to off-peak hours when rates are lower.
7. Solar panels:
Installing solar panels can generate electricity, which can offset the energy you use from the grid, and potentially lower your utility bill.
8. Smart Thermostat:
Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and adjust the temperature accordingly, which can help to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
It’s important to note that the most effective ways to reduce utility costs will depend on the specific house and usage patterns.
It’s recommended to consult with a professional for a detailed energy audit to identify the most effective ways to save energy and money.
FAQs
1. What Are The Typical Utilities For A House Per Month?
The typical utilities for a house per month include electricity, gas, water, and internet/cable/phone service.
The cost of these utilities can vary depending on the location, size of the house, and usage.
2. How Can I Lower My Monthly Utility Bills?
There are several ways to lower your monthly utility bills, such as:
Lowering your energy usage by using energy-efficient appliances and lighting
Installing a programmable thermostat to control your heating and cooling usage
Sealing any air leaks in your home to improve insulation
Using natural light whenever possible
Conserving water by fixing leaks and installing low-flow fixtures
3. How Can I Compare The Costs Of Different Utility Providers?
To compare the costs of different utility providers, you can:
Check with the Public Utility Commission in your state for
information on rates and services offered by different providers
Compare rates and plans on the provider’s website or by contacting them directly
Read customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the provider’s reputation and customer service
4. What Are The Typical Costs For Electricity, Gas, Water, And Internet/Cable/Phone Service?
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average monthly electric bill for a residential customer in 2019 was $111.67, while the average monthly natural gas bill was $72.33.
The average cost for water service can vary greatly depending on the location, but in some areas, the average monthly bill is around $40.
The cost for internet, cable and phone service can vary depending on the provider and the package chosen, but the average monthly cost is around $100.
5. How Can I Track My Utility Usage And Bills?
You can track your utility usage and bills by:
Checking your utility provider’s website or mobile app to view your account information and usage history
Keeping track of your bills and usage manually by recording the readings on your utility meters
Installing a smart meter or smart home device that can track your usage and send you alerts when you are approaching your usage limits.
Conclusion
Utilities for a house can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, energy usage, and the specific services being used.
It is important to research and compare options for different utility providers to find the best rates and services for your household.
Additionally, implementing energy-saving practices, such as using energy-efficient appliances and reducing water usage, can help lower monthly utility costs.
Ultimately, being mindful of your utility usage and making smart choices can help keep your monthly utility bills manageable.