What Utilities Are Included in Rent? An Easy Guide [2025]

Trying to budget for an apartment, but unsure of the utilities. Find out what utilities are included in rent, and what you pay for.

In most rentals, landlords cover water, sewage, and trash, while tenants pay for electricity, gas, internet, and cable. If an apartment advertises “utilities included,” it usually means the basics:

• Water
• Sewer
• Trash and recycling
• Gas or electricity (sometimes)
• Heat (in some buildings)
• Internet or cable (rarely)

Always confirm what’s covered before signing your lease, as utility bill policies vary by building. Our article below outlines who is responsible for paying what utilities in an apartment rental.

What Utilities Are Included in Rent?

Are Utilities Included in Rent?

In most apartments, you will be responsible for paying electricity, gas, and internet/cable bills, while landlords will typically cover the water, sewage, and garbage. The cost of these utilities is either lumped into your monthly rent or included as a separate charge in your monthly rental statement. If you are looking for an apartment that has all utilities covered, the costs are likely also included in your rent or rental statement.

Note: Some apartments bundle heat, gas, or electricity into rent—but always double-check your lease.

What are the Pros of Having Utilities Included?

Easier budgeting

One flat payment makes monthly budgeting simpler. You don’t have to worry about spikes in utility bills during hot summers or cold winters.

Less roommate stress

Splitting bills can be messy. With utilities included, everyone just pays rent. No math, no Venmo requests.

Fewer setup hassles

Normally, you’d need to set up accounts, pass credit checks, and wait for technicians. With utilities included, everything is already on when you move in.

Predictable costs

Because utilities are bundled, you’ll never be surprised by fluctuating bills. That stability may even let you afford a nicer apartment.

What are the cons of having utilities included?

Higher rent overall

When utilities are included, landlords estimate costs and usually round up. You might pay more than if you handled the bills yourself.

Less control

If utilities are centrally managed, you may not control your thermostat, water temperature, or heating schedule. That can be frustrating if you run hot or cold.

No chance to shop around

Utility providers often offer discounts for new customers. If you’re not in control, you can’t take advantage of cheaper rates.

How Much Do Utilities Cost on Average in 2025?

Utility costs vary by location, season, and apartment size, but here are recent national averages (based on the most recent Apartment List data):

• Liquid and solid fuels used for household heating, such as oil, charcoal, kerosene and wood.

Add on the cost of internet per month, and that’s another $71 on average, according to recent Numbeo data.

If you need more details on what you can expect, check out our helpful guide on utility costs, which breaks down averages by city, state, and number of bedrooms.

How Do I Pay Utilities If They’re Not Included?

Most providers let you pay online, set up autopay, or even choose your due date. If your lease requires utilities in your name, contact providers 2–3 weeks before move-in to ensure service is ready. Ask your landlord which companies service the building—they’ll often provide setup instructions.

We also have a guide on transferring utilities from one address to another if you're able to use the same companies in your new place.

When Do You Pay Utilities?

• If included in rent: You’ll make one payment to your landlord each month, usually due on the 1st.
• If separate: You’ll get bills directly from providers, typically on a 30-day cycle. Some allow custom billing dates.

Always pay on time. Missed payments can lead to late fees or service shut-offs.

How Do I Split Bills With Roommates?

Living with roommates? Decide upfront how to divide costs. Common methods:

• Even split: Each roommate pays the same amount.
• By income: Higher earners pay more.
• By room size: Larger bedrooms = bigger share.

Designate one roommate to manage accounts, then use apps like Venmo or Splitwise to keep payments organized.

Find Your Dream Apartment

Whether you're looking for apartments with utilities included or are just wanting to find the perfect place in the right location, take our helpful quiz to get matched with your perfect apartment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Utilities Included in Rent

Do Landlords Have to Pay for Water?

There are many places where water companies hold the property owner responsible for paying the water bill, such as in Cincinnati. In those cases, your landlord is technically responsible for paying water. However, that does not mean your landlord can't bill you for usage. Even if your landlord is required to pay the bill directly, the cost of water will still be included as part of your monthly rent.

Can a Landlord Charge for Water and Sewage?

Yes -- even if the landlord is required to pay for these bills directly because they are the property owner, they are allowed to pass the cost of water and sewage onto tenants in their monthly rent statement.

Is Heating Included in Rent?

Heating is usually part of an electric or gas bill, depending on how heating works in your building. If you are responsible for electricity or gas, then you will be the one paying for heating. Heating will generally only be included in rent if your gas and/or electric bill is as well.

Are Utilities Regulated?

Utilities are generally regulated at the state level, usually by an office that focuses solely on public utilities, such as the Department of Public Service in New York.