The cost of utilities can vary widely between states, and of course, even between individuals, based on their consumption habits.
The best way to save on your monthly utility bills remains to stay moderate in your habits. But there are a few other tricks you may employ that will help knock off a few dollars every month without even trying!
In this post, we’ll give you a brief utilities overview and provide tips for keeping those utility bills down!
How Much is the Average Electricity Bill?
The electricity bill is likely the largest you’ll see monthly between the HVAC system, appliances, and other electronics/lighting in your home.
According to RentCafe.com’s utilities study, Hawaii’s average electricity bills are the most expensive at $215 per month. Utah holds the spot for least costly at $81 per month. There are many reasons for the variation, including weather, geography, population size, and industrial consumption.
How to Save on Your Electric Bill
Conservation is key! Begin with using your HVAC system efficiently by setting your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and higher in the summer, so the unit doesn’t have to work as hard to moderate the temperature. Maintaining your system and replacing the filters helps it run more efficiently, too.
If you live in a more temperate climate, consider turning it off completely! You may be surprised how a few open windows and strategically placed box fans can keep your place cool in milder weather.
You can also save by leaving the lights and the tv off in rooms you aren’t using and unplugging electronic devices when not in use.
Beyond these classic strategies, there are a few things you may do to reduce your electricity bills without touching the thermostat or the light switch, for instance, installing LED bulbs in place of regular light bulbs and using smart power strips that switch to standby mode when not in use.
How Much is the Average Gas Bill?
Most people use gas for cooking and water/space heating. Your gas bill may be low because you’re great at moderating your hot water use, and you’ve learned to heat your house efficiently. But that doesn’t mean you can expect the bill to remain low if you move to a different state because of variations in tax rates and fixed charges for things like billing, metering, line maintenance, etc.
Regarding gas bill pricing, unsurprisingly, Alaska takes the top spot at $150 per month, and Florida is at the lowest end of the spectrum with an average of $46 per month.
How to Save on Your Gas Bill
During the cold winter months, ensure your windows and doors seal adequately, and if needed, use draft blockers. A smart thermostat is an excellent tool to help regulate your home’s climate and save on your gas bill in the winter, too.
Use the cold water setting on your washing machine and the energy-efficiency setting on your dishwasher to reduce the amount of hot water these appliances use. Taking more tepid showers and baths always helps as well.
How Much is the Average Water Bill?
Water prices between states may fluctuate due to weather patterns and privatization practices, but the most impactful variable on the cost of your water bill lies in accessibility to a natural water source and efficiency of getting the water from its source to the consumer.
To illustrate how much they can vary, if you move from North Carolina to West Virginia, you’ll need to budget for an $85 increase in your average monthly water bill!
How to Save on Your Water Bill
There are plenty of small but impactful ways to reduce your water bill. Take shorter showers and use water sparingly while doing dishes. Also, fix leaky faucets and running toilets immediately and use a tightly sealed nozzle on your outdoor water hoses.
Using appliances with eco-friendly features and showerheads designed to conserve water contributes to lower water bills as well.
How Much is the Average Cable & Internet Bill?
Competition between local providers often determines how much your cable and internet bill will be. Still, you can also expect differences depending on how rural your location is and what type of internet you use. For example, while most states have an average monthly internet bill of $30, Alaskans pay an average of $70!
How to Save on Your Monthly Cable & Internet Bill
Compare internet and cable packages between your local providers, and don’t be shy about asking for deals on things like sign-up bonuses, package discounts, and other special offers. These companies are usually motivated to accommodate potential long-term customers.
Utility Costs Don’t Have to Break the Bank!
With preparation and by establishing some household rules, you can bring your utility bills down (and keep them down!) every month. The best part? You’ll be doing your part as a responsible global citizen, too.
