How Much Average Utilities Cost Apartment? Breakdown by Type, Size & Location

Managing a profitable rental portfolio requires a clear grasp of all financial variables, not just the rent. For property owners, understanding the average utilities cost apartment is essential for strategic pricing, accurate budgeting, and reducing tenant turnover. 

This guide breaks down typical utility expenses by type, size, and location, along with practical factors that influence consumption. It also includes tools for estimating monthly bills before leasing and proven methods to reduce overall utility usage in an apartment setting.

What Are Utilities in an Apartment?

Utilities are essential services that make a living space habitable and functional. For a rental property, these typically include:

• Electricity: Powers lighting, appliances, and often heating/cooling systems. This is frequently the highest variable cost.
• Gas: Primarily used for heating, hot water, and cooking appliances (stoves, ovens).
• Water & Sewer: Covers the cost of fresh water supply and the disposal/treatment of wastewater.
• Trash/Sewer: Services for waste removal and recycling. In some jurisdictions, this is bundled with water or property taxes; in others, it is a separate tenant responsibility.
• Internet, Cable, & Phone: While technically non-essential, these services—especially high-speed internet—are now considered critical infrastructure for most tenants.

The specific utilities a tenant is responsible for must be explicitly detailed in the lease agreement. Property owners should review the nuances of what utilities are included in rent in their region, as local regulations may dictate certain responsibilities.

Understanding these nuances is often as critical as knowing the difference between a subletting vs. subleasing agreement.

How Much Average Utilities Type Cost by Apartment?

Determining the price for utilities in an apartment begins with understanding national benchmarks. It's also worth considering how a unit’s furnishings might affect usage patterns when comparing furnished apartments vs. unfurnished.

National Average Utilities for Renters

National surveys from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and major rental market reports (2024–2025) show that the average utilities cost apartment typically falls between $150 and $300 per month when excluding internet. 

When factoring in internet service, the common range increases to $200–$380 per month.

Several situations can push monthly costs above average:

• Apartments in cold northern states where heating remains active 5–6 months per year
• Older multifamily buildings with outdated insulation or original HVAC units
• Units that rely on electric heating, which is generally more expensive than natural gas
• Cities with high municipal water rates, such as Seattle or San Francisco

It is vital to use region-specific data for accurate tenant advisement. The cost in a high-density, expensive city will vastly differ from a smaller, less energy-reliant locale. This is a primary difference when comparing renting a home vs. apartment utilities.

Average Electricity Bill for an Apartment

Electricity remains the largest portion of apartment utility expenses nationwide. It powers heating, cooling, lighting, and all appliances. According to the recent 2025 data from the EIA Residential Energy Consumption Survey, the electricity bills for apartments average $75–$120 per month.  

Key national benchmarks include:

• Average apartment power bill: around $95 per month
• Southern states with long, hot summers frequently record $130–$150 due to prolonged AC usage
• All-electric apartments (heating, cooking, hot water) often exceed $160, especially in winter
• Units with old refrigerators, non-LED lighting, or aging HVAC systems can consume 20–30% more electricity

Example: A modern, energy-efficient one-bedroom with ENERGY STAR appliances may stay near $70–$85 monthly. Meanwhile, a pre-1990 apartment with original HVAC could reach $150 even in moderate climates.

Average Water Bill for an Apartment

The cost of water and sewer service varies significantly by region, city infrastructure, and drought regulations. National rental data shows:

• How much is a water bill for an apartment? Typically $30–$60 per month, including sewer charges
• Cities with tiered pricing or strict water restrictions often reach $65–$75 monthly

According to the EPA, the average person uses 82 gallons of water per day, meaning a two-person household could easily reach 5,000 gallons per month.

Average Gas and Electric Cost Per Month

Many apartments combine natural gas and electricity usage. Gas is often used for space heating, hot water, and cooking, and tends to be cheaper than electricity. However, seasonal variation is significant.

National averages show:

• How much gas and electric per month? Combined totals typically range $40–$100 per month.
• Winter heating in northern states, especially those with long freeze periods can push gas bills above $120–$150.
• Newer apartments with upgraded insulation may keep monthly gas usage under $35–$45.

Gas tends to be lower in newer, energy-efficient buildings.

Average Internet Cost for an Apartment

Internet has become an essential apartment utility, especially for remote work and streaming. Pricing depends on provider availability, speed tier, and local service competition.

Typical monthly costs include:

• Standard broadband plans: $40–$75
• High-speed fiber plans: $70–$110
• Rural or less competitive markets may see higher starting prices, often near $80

Luxury or newly developed multifamily buildings sometimes bundle internet into monthly rent as part of community amenities

How Much Average Utility Bills by Apartment Size?

Apartment size is one of the strongest predictors of monthly utility costs. As the square footage increases, so do heating/cooling demands, lighting needs, and the number of appliances in use.

In general:

• Studio apartments cost the least in utilities.
• Two-bedroom apartments cost the most due to larger space and more occupants.

Average Utility Bill for a Studio Apartment

Studio apartments generally have the lowest utility expenses because of their compact layout, limited appliances, and reduced heating and cooling needs. Most studios range between 350 and 550 square feet, which significantly lowers energy consumption compared to larger units.

National data from EIA, EPA, and rental market analyses shows:

• Average utilities cost apartment (studio): $100–$160/month
• Electricity: typically $55–$85
• Water: around $25–$45
• Internet: $40–$60, depending on provider and location

Why studio units remain lower-cost:

• Less square footage reduces HVAC load
• Fewer lights and outlets
• Smaller appliances consume less power
• Single-occupancy units typically generate lower hot-water usage

Example:
A studio in Portland with energy-efficient appliances may average just $120/month, while a studio in Miami during summer may reach $150 due to extended AC usage. Studios in older buildings with baseboard electric heating may hit the higher end of the range.

Average Utility Bill for a 1-Bedroom Apartment

One-bedroom apartments represent one of the most stable benchmarks when estimating rental utility costs. These units commonly range between 600 and 800 square feet, which naturally increases energy and water usage.

• Average utility bill for a 1-bedroom apartment: $150–$250/month
• When adding high-speed internet or streaming packages, totals can reach $250–$300
• This aligns with the keyword: average utility bill for 1 bedroom apartment

Many renters also ask: how much are utilities per month for one person? For a single occupant in a 1-bedroom, the typical range is $140–$210, depending on climate, building age, and appliance efficiency.

Average Utility Bill for a 2-Bedroom Apartment

Two-bedroom apartments typically support two or more occupants, increasing water usage, cooking frequency, HVAC runtime, and general electricity consumption. These units often span 850 to 1,200 square feet, depending on market and building age.

Typical averages include:

• $200–$350/month for standard two-bedroom units
• Cold-weather regions or units with electric heating can easily exceed $400
• Multi-person households may also increase water usage (showers, laundry, dishwasher use)

Landlords use these averages when determining competitive rent pricing, sometimes referenced in guides such as how much rent should I charge.

How Much Average Utility Bills by Apartment Location?

Utility costs vary significantly across the U.S., driven by climate, local electricity rates, water pricing policies, and the age/efficiency of housing stock. Understanding these differences helps landlords set realistic expectations and helps renters anticipate monthly expenses.

States With the Highest Utility Bills

National utility reports (2024–2025) list several states where renters regularly face the highest monthly utility bills, often exceeding $300–$400 per month for standard apartments.

These states rank high due to one or more factors:

• Extreme climate (very hot or very cold)
• High electricity rates
• Older infrastructure and less efficient housing
• Water scarcity or expensive water treatment systems
• Heavy reliance on electric heating or air conditioning

Top High-Utility-Cost States (And Why)

States With the Lowest Utility Bills

On the other end of the spectrum, several states offer consistently low utility costs, typically between $150–$220 per month for standard apartments.

These states benefit from:

• Abundant hydropower (cheap electricity)
• Moderate climates that reduce heating/cooling needs
• Newer, energy-efficient housing
• Lower water treatment or distribution costs

Top Low-Utility-Cost States (And Why)

In these states, property managers can market the low average utilities cost apartment as a selling point.

Factors That Affect Your Monthly Utility Costs

The variability in utility expenses makes providing a single, reliable number challenging. Property owners must understand the underlying mechanisms driving these costs.

External Factors

• Climate: Cold regions increase heating costs; hot regions raise AC usage.
• Building age: Older buildings often lack insulation or efficient HVAC systems.
• Appliance efficiency: Upgrading these appliances is an investment that lowers tenant utility bills and can justify a slightly higher rent, helping property owners decide how much rent should I charge.
• Utility provider rates: Prices vary widely across states and municipalities.
• Included amenities: Some rentals bundle trash or water into rent.

Personal Habits and Usage

• Frequent laundry cycles
• Long hot showers
• Constant AC or heat use
• Multiple devices and electronics
• High-speed internet requirements

These habits shape how much is utility for an apartment, even when the unit type remains constant.

How to Calculate Your Utility Costs Before Renting

Property owners should equip prospective tenants with the tools and data necessary to estimate their monthly expenses accurately. This transparency prevents sticker shock, reduces tenant turnover, and helps screen applicants who understand the total financial commitment.

1. Clarify Utility Responsibilities

Lease agreements should specify who pays for what. Many landlords use a lease addendum or detailed rent clause to outline responsibilities. 

The lease should specify if the tenant is responsible for:

• Setting up accounts with the utility providers.
• Paying fixed fees (like an admin fee apartments sometimes charge) or the variable usage charges.
• The terms for any prorated billing (e.g., if the tenant moves in mid-month and needs a prorated rent calculation).

2. Request Historical Usage Data

One of the easiest ways for renters to estimate future expenses is to ask the landlord or property manager for historical utility usage. Most leasing offices can share this information during the application stage or upon a simple written request.

When requesting data, tenants should ask for usage details rather than just the monthly cost, because usage provides a clearer picture of real consumption. For example:

• Electricity: kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month
• Gas: therms
• Water: gallons or cubic feet
• Any seasonal spikes: winter heating or summer AC data

This information helps tenants compare the unit’s efficiency and anticipate high-demand months.

Some utility companies also allow renters to obtain past usage directly if the landlord signs a release form. This is helpful in large apartment communities where each unit may have different insulation quality, sunlight exposure, or HVAC efficiency.

In several states, especially where the building is master-metered, landlords must provide up to 12 months of historical utility data when a tenant requests it. This requirement ensures renters understand the expected average utilities cost apartment before signing a lease.

3. Use Online Estimators and Averages

When historical usage data isn’t available, renters can still get a reliable estimate by using online tools and published utility averages. These resources help approximate how much utilities may cost based on the apartment’s size, age, climate zone, and heating type.

Two helpful approaches include:

• Online Calculators: Many local utility companies and reputable financial sites provide free calculators. Users enter details such as square footage, number of occupants, heating fuel type (electric vs. gas), and appliance efficiency.
• National & Local Averages:  Renters can also compare costs using national averages from sources like the EIA, EPA, and local utility boards. Typical benchmarks include: electricity for apartments, water and sewer, internet,... 

Using both resources together gives tenants a practical, well-rounded estimate of the average utilities cost apartment even when past usage data is not provided.

4. Factor in Personal Usage Habits

Tenants should adjust the provided averages based on their lifestyle:

• Work-from-Home: A tenant who works from home will use more electricity and A/C/Heat than someone who commutes daily, increasing the average apartment power bill.
• Internet/Cable: High-speed internet, streaming subscriptions, or cable packages can add $40–$110/month depending on provider and plan, and should be included when estimating total monthly utilities.
• Laundry Frequency: Doing laundry several times a week, especially in-unit, significantly raises water and electricity/gas costs.
• Roommates: The cost for utilities per month for one person is not simply half the cost for two. There are economies of scale, but the total bill will still be higher.

5. Create a Budget and a Buffer

Advise tenants to budget for the high end of the estimated range and to include a 10-15% buffer for unexpected usage or seasonal spikes. This is a sound financial practice, similar to understanding the importance of what does renters insurance cover.

Property owners should also consider the implications of the lease length on utility rate changes. If tenants need to leave early, understanding the lease buyout apartment process is also relevant.

How to Lower Your Apartment Utility Bills

Efficient management reduces monthly expenses and supports sustainability goals.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling typically make up 40%–50% of a renter’s total utility bill, making this the biggest opportunity for savings.

How to reduce HVAC costs effectively:

• Install programmable or smart thermostats: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adjusting the thermostat 7–10°F for 8 hours a day can cut heating and cooling costs by roughly 10% per year.
• Seal drafty windows or use blackout/thermal curtains: This prevents heat loss during winter and blocks heat during summer, reducing HVAC usage by 2%–5%.
• Schedule HVAC maintenance: Dirty filters increase energy consumption by 15%. Air filters should be replaced every 60–90 days.
• Use ceiling fans alongside AC: A ceiling fan costs only $1–$5 per month to run and lets you raise the thermostat by 2–4°F without losing comfort.

Water and Hot Water

Water heating accounts for 18% of total household energy use, so small changes add up quickly.

Ways to lower water and hot water bills:

• Fix leaks immediately: A faucet leaking one drop per second wastes 3,000+ gallons per year, costing $35–$60 annually depending on city water rates.
• Install low-flow showerheads or faucet aerators: These reduce water use by 25%–60% without losing pressure, saving renters $50–$100/year on water and heating costs.
• Use cold water for laundry: Nearly 90% of the energy used for washing clothes goes toward heating water.
• Shorten shower times: Reducing a shower by 2 minutes saves around 5 gallons per shower.

Electricity and General Use

Appliances, electronics, and lighting make up 25%–30% of the average electricity bill.

Tips to reduce electricity usage:

• Switch to LED bulbs (75% less energy): Replacing ten incandescent bulbs with LEDs saves $70–$100 per year.
• Unplug devices when not in use: Standby power (“energy vampires”) can account for 5%–10% of electricity use.
• Use smart power strips with auto-shutoff: These eliminate idle power usage, sometimes saving $100+ per year in apartments with many electronics.
• Limit space heater use: A 1,500-watt heater used 8 hours a day can add $40–$55/month to an electric bill—often more expensive than central heating.

Conclusion

A clear understanding of average apartment utility costs helps landlords set accurate expectations, reduce disputes, and support renters in budgeting confidently. Because utility prices vary by unit size, building type, and state, transparent communication becomes an essential part of the leasing process.

For landlords who want a smoother, more efficient workflow, LeaseRunner offers an all-in-one platform for online applications, tenant screening, digital leases, and rent collection.

FAQs

What is the average power bill for apartments?

The average power bill for apartments typically ranges from $75–$120 per month, depending on climate, building type, and appliance efficiency.

How much gas and electric is normal per month?

Combined gas and electric costs per month average $40–$100, but heating-heavy regions may exceed this during winter months.

How much do apartments charge for electricity?

Electricity charges depend on local utility providers and consumption patterns. Most apartments see electric bills between $80–$150 monthly, although all-electric units may run higher.