If you're moving into a new apartment, one of the first questions you'll ask is: how much do utilities cost? Knowing what to expect can make or break your monthly budget.
According to the most recent Apartment List data:
Typical Monthly Breakdown (1-Bedroom):
Example: Splitting Costs
Utilities are the essential services that keep your apartment running. Most renters pay for some or all of the following:
These categories align with how major housing and utility reports (including sources like Forbes Home and Move.org) define household utility costs.
Sometimes—but not always.
Often included:
Usually not included:
Always check your lease before signing—this can significantly impact your monthly costs.
Source: Apartment List internal data (2025–2026 averages) Type: National averages (not medians) Units: USD per month
Your actual costs will vary based on location, usage, and building efficiency.
On average in the U.S.:
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, heating and cooling account for a large share of home energy use, which is why climate plays such a big role in your bill.
Utility costs differ depending on the square footage of your apartment.
| Bedrooms | Electricity Cost | Gas Cost | Water Cost | Fuel Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 97.22 | 17.70 | 18.90 | 0.37 | 134.19 |
| One-Bedroom | 102.62 | 20.42 | 20.40 | 0.56 | 144.00 |
| Two-Bedrooms | 141.78 | 35.94 | 32.28 | 1.58 | 211.58 |
| Three-Bedrooms | 193.47 | 60.83 | 46.42 | 3.44 | 304.16 |
| Four+-Bedrooms | 230.82 | 78.75 | 56.04 | 4.55 | 370.17 |
Takeaway: Utilities increase with square footage—but splitting costs can make larger units more affordable per person.
According to Apartment List data, utility costs vary significantly depending on where you live.
According to Apartment List data:
Average (1-bedroom): ~$102.62/month
Quick way to save: Lower your thermostat by 7–10°F for part of the day → save ~$10–$20/month
Average (1-bedroom): ~$20.42/month
Quick way to save: Lower your thermostat by 2–3°F → save ~$5–$15/month
Quick way to save: Install low-flow fixtures → save ~20% (~$4–$8/month)
Heating and cooling account for ~50% of energy costs. These vary significantly by region:
Quick way to save: Adjust your thermostat and seal drafts → save ~$15–$40/month
Quick way to save: Downgrade your plan → save ~$10–$30/month
Want a quick way to estimate your apartment's utility costs?
Monthly Utilities = Base Cost × Size Factor × Climate Factor
Base (1-bed avg): $144
Size factor:
Climate factor:
How to determine your climate factor:
Example 1: NYC Winter $144 × 1.0 × 1.2 = ~$173/month
Example 2: Phoenix Summer $144 × 1.0 × 1.4 = ~$202/month
Beyond the basics, you may also pay for:
Small changes can lead to real savings over time.
Save on Electricity
Save on Gas
Save on Water
Save on Internet
Utilities are a key part of your monthly housing budget. According to Apartment List data, most renters spend $200–$290 per month including internet, though your actual costs will depend on location, usage, and whether you share expenses.
The good news: with a little planning and a few smart habits, you can keep your utility bills under control.
Ready to find the perfect apartment? Take our quiz to find your next apartment!
Last updated March 2026
The average cost of utilities for a one-bedroom apartment in the U.S. is $144.00. However, if you share utilities with roommates, that cost could be lower. For example, the average cost of utilities for a 3-Bedroom apartment is $304.16, but split three ways, that total is only $101.38 per person. These estimates include gas, electric, water, and fuel.
The different types of utilities include the basics, such as electricity, gas, water, and sewage. Other types of utilities may include things such as the internet, cable, and phone.
The average electricity bill according to the latest Apartment List data is $102.62 per month for a one-bedroom and $141.78 for a two-bedroom.
The average gas bill for a one-bedroom is around $20.42 for a one-bedroom and $35.94 for a two-bedroom.
The average water bill for a one-bedroom is around $20.40 for a one-bedroom and $32.38 for a two-bedroom.
The average Wi-Fi bill ranges from $40-$75 per month, depending on factors, including where you live, download speed, and added features (such as streaming services).
Utilities are not typically included in your rent unless explicitly stated in your lease agreement. However, if you have found an apartment that includes utilities, typically this will cover the essentials: electric, gas, water, sewage, and trash. We wrote a guide if you're interested in learning more about apartments with utilities included.
Some of the most common reasons for high energy bills include:
Natural gas is usually the cheapest home heating option. The average monthly gas cost for a 1-bedroom apartment is $19.71, though it will likely be higher in winter months. The second most affordable option is electricity.
It is not cheaper to leave your heating on all day. It is more cost effective to adjust your heating to a comfortable setting only when people are in your house. Good insulation is key to heat efficiency at any time of day.
Natural gas is often the cheaper option for heating a home in most places throughout the U.S. compared to different kinds of electric heating, especially electric resistance heating.
Yes. Summer A/C and winter heating are the biggest cost drivers. Expect higher bills during temperature extremes.
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Gym + more
