Average Electricity Bill for 2 Bedroom Apartment in Ohio

What Is the Average Electricity Bill of a 2-Bedroom Apartment in Ohio? 

The average monthly electricity bill for a 2-bedroom apartment in Ohio is $174.32 per month. This estimate considers common appliances found in most households and their average energy consumption at 15.82¢ per kWh according to the EIA as of September 2024. 

Electricity costs can vary significantly depending on the appliances and their usage. This breakdown provides a detailed analysis of electricity consumption for a typical two-bedroom apartment, based on average daily usage and local electricity rates in Columbus, Ohio. Here’s how to find out how much your electricity bill will be for your Ohio Apartment: 

Let’s say you’re living in the Flats II in Columbus Ohio, living in a two-bedroom apartment with one roommate. Your apartment comes with a full kitchen with an electric stove, a dishwasher, and a refrigerator.  

Your apartment also comes with air conditioning and is fully furnished with three 28 inch televisions in both bedrooms and the living area. Lastly, you have various light fixtures scattered throughout your apartment; the chart below assumes you have 10 light bulbs on for 8 hours a day. Each appliance’s electricity cost is calculated by multiplying its wattage by hours of daily use, converting to kilowatt-hours, and then applying the local electricity rate.  

With all these factors in mind, your average weekly electricity bill for a 2 bedroom apartment in Ohio is $37.26, your monthly bill is $174.32 and your yearly bill costs $2,121.25. 

Average Power Consumption of Appliances in a 2-Bedroom Apartment in Ohio 

Where does all that energy you’re using in your Ohio apartment go? Think about it—your fridge keeps your food cold 24/7, your air conditioner works overtime during those humid summers, and who doesn’t enjoy a cozy night of Netflix and LED lighting? 

If you’re wondering about the weekly, monthly, and yearly energy consumption of your appliances in your 2-bedroom Ohio apartment, here’s all you need to know: 

Keep in mind that the energy consumption and total of your electricity bill for your 2-bedroom apartment in Ohio can affected by many other factors like: 

• Weather: Increased use of air conditioning can lead to higher electricity consumption. The more temperatures rise, the more people turn to their air conditioning. 

• Occupant Behavior: Individual habits significantly impact electricity consumption. Factors like leaving electronics on standby, using lights in multiple rooms (or turning them off in certain rooms), frequently opening the refrigerator, or watching two televisions at once can increase overall electricity usage beyond these baseline estimates. 

• Appliance Efficiency: The age and energy efficiency of appliances play a crucial role. Newer, Energy Star-rated appliances consume less electricity compared to older models 

• Local Electricity Rates: Electricity rates can vary by provider and can change seasonally. 

• Apartment Insulation and Layout: The thermal efficiency of your apartment, including window quality, insulation, and overall square footage, can impact heating and cooling costs. 

Can Apartment Renters in Ohio Choose their Energy Supplier for More Options and Potential Savings? 

Generally speaking, yes, Ohio apartment renters can choose their electricity supplier due to Ohio’s deregulated energy market. 

This means that, in most cases, renters have the ability to select their energy provider independently from the local utility company, offering more plan options and potential savings. 

However, it’s important to note that some apartment complexes may include utilities in the rent, meaning renters are not able to select a different energy supplier. 

If you’re an apartment renter, the rules and restrictions in your apartment building will ultimately determine whether you can choose your own energy supplier for your apartment. 

Before switching providers, renters should:  

• Check their lease agreement for any restrictions on utility providers. 

• Confirm with their landlord or property management about the ability to choose an alternative electricity supplier. 

• Understand any potential fees associated with switching providers. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Energy Plans in Ohio 

If you’re in the market for a new electricity plan for your 2-bedroom Ohio apartment, there’s a few things you should consider before you make your decision. Thanks to Ohio’s deregulated energy market, you’ll have the flexibility to pick a plan that’s right for your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider: 

• Budget – this is a key consideration, as electricity costs can vary based on the type of plan and seasonal demand.  

• Usage Habit – Understanding your usage habits helps ensure you pick a plan that matches your energy consumption, whether you’re a low-usage household or have higher needs due to working from home or running multiple appliances. 

• Sustainability – if sustainability is a priority, selecting a plan with a focus on environmental impact, such as renewable energy options, allows you to reduce your carbon footprint while meeting your energy needs. 

Common Energy Plans for Ohio Renters Include… 

When renting an apartment in Ohio, understanding your energy plan options is crucial to managing your electricity costs. Here are some of the most common plans that are offered by Ohio energy suppliers: 

Fixed-Rate Energy 

Fixed-rate energy plans are a great option that promotes stability. Fixed-rate electricity offers price certainty and stability for the length of your contract, even when market prices fluctuate. This energy plan option is perfect for protecting yourself from market volatility with a predictable rate that helps you budget more effectively. 

Unlimited Energy 

“Flat fee” or Unlimited Energy plans offer set, predictable monthly flat fees for energy consumption, ensuring that customers won’t experience fluctuations in their energy costs regardless of usage, making budgeting simpler and more reliable. 

Our Unlimited Energy plan provides no changes to your supply charge and no surprises in your energy costs.* 

As an added bonus, when you enroll in a Santanna Unlimited Energy plan, you can enjoy peace of mind while contributing to a good cause—each Unlimited Energy plan enrollment supports Midwest charities through our donations!** 

Earth-Friendly Energy 

Earth-friendly energy plans utilize renewable energy like wind and solar energy to provide your home energy. If you have environmental goals and a love for sustainability, this plan is for you. 

Our earth-friendly energy plans help balance our carbon emissions with carbon offsets and support renewable energy. As a bonus, when you choose a Santanna earth-friendly energy plan, you can support reforestation initiatives simply by cooling or heating your home! 

What is the Average Electricity Bill in Ohio? 

Electricity rates in Ohio shift frequently making your billing fluctuate on a monthly basis depending on which energy plan you choose. Data from EIA states that the average electric rates in Ohio as of September 2024 sits at 15.82 cents per kWh. 

The average residence uses 889kWh of electricity a month. If most Ohio residences consume this much energy a month at the rate of 15.82 cents per kWh, the average electricity bill in Ohio would be $140.16 a month. 

Does Electricity Rate Vary by Region? 

Electricity rates in Ohio vary by region due to differences in utility providers, infrastructure costs, and local energy policies. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) oversees several regulated electric companies, each serving specific areas with distinct rate structures.  

Rates can also fluctuate based on the availability of renewable energy sources, local energy demand, and transportation costs. 

Why Knowing Your Electricity Costs Matters 

Without proper budgeting, these costs can become unpredictable, especially during extreme heat where your air conditioner is forced to work harder. 

For renters, understanding utility costs helps avoid financial surprises and ensures the apartment is affordable in the long term. Budgeting for utilities ensures you have a clear picture of your monthly living expenses and can allocate funds accordingly. 

Why Is Your Electric Bill So High in Ohio? 

Electric bills in Ohio can vary significantly depending on the region, energy plan and weather. Here are some of the most common reasons your electricity bill in Ohio is so high: 

• Utility Providers: Different service territories have unique rate structures. Your electricity rate is different depending on who you get your energy from. 

• Energy Source Mix: Some regions rely heavily on natural gas or coal for electricity generation. Fluctuations in fuel costs for these sources can lead to higher bills. 

• Local Taxes and Fees: Some areas impose local taxes or additional charges for infrastructure projects, which are reflected in electricity bills. 

• Seasonal Demand: Summer cooling using air conditioners and winter heating with electric systems place heavy demand on the grid, leading to higher energy consumption and costs. 

• Extreme Weather Events: Storms and power outages can lead to additional operational costs for utilities, some of which are recovered by increasing rates. 

• Rate Increases: Utilities can file requests with PUCO to increase rates to cover operational costs, infrastructure investments, or compliance with environmental regulations. 

• Renewable Energy Mandates: Efforts to transition to renewable energy sources require investments in new technologies and infrastructure, which can result in temporary rate increases. 

Cost of Living in Ohio 

Ohio has a 7% cheaper cost of living than the national average, making it an attractive state for those seeking affordable living options. This lower cost is reflected across various essential expenses, from housing to healthcare. 

Overall, Ohio offers a balanced and cost-effective living environment, ideal for individuals and families looking to make their dollars stretch further. 

How Much Are Apartments In Ohio? 

As of November 2024, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Ohio is around $1,295 per month. The average rent in Ohio has increased 3% from last year. 

It’s important to note that Ohio’s rental market is generally more affordable compared to the national average. For example, the median rent in Ohio is $1,300, which is $730 less than the national median. 

When considering renting in Ohio, it’s advisable to research specific cities or neighborhoods, as rental prices can vary based on location, apartment size, and amenities. 

Tips for Saving on Your Electricity Costs 

1. Use Motion-Sensor Lights: Prevent leaving lights on in unoccupied spaces like hallways or closets by installing motion-sensor lighting. 
2. Invest in Smart Power Strips: These cut power to devices that go into standby mode, helping to eliminate phantom energy use. 
3. Service HVAC Systems Regularly: Clean or replace filters every 1-3 months to improve system efficiency and reduce energy consumption. 
4. Ceiling Fans for Seasonal Use: In summer, set your ceiling fans to run counterclockwise, which will create a cooling breeze. In winter, reverse the fan’s direction to circulate warm air. 
5. Reduce Hot Water Usage: Lower your water heater’s thermostat to 120°F to save on water heating costs without sacrificing comfort. 
6. Energy-Saving Settings: Use the eco or energy-saving modes on appliances like washing machines and dishwashers for efficient operation. 
7. Summer Savings: Close curtains during the day to block sunlight and use portable or ceiling fans to reduce reliance on air conditioning. 
8. Winter Savings: Open curtains on sunny days to naturally warm your home and close them at night to reduce heat loss. 
9. Clean Your Fridge Coils: Dusty coils force your refrigerator to work harder, consuming more energy. 
10. Understanding the average electricity bill for a 2-bedroom apartment in Ohio provides valuable insight into your energy consumption and how it fits into your budget. By identifying the most energy-consuming appliances, adopting energy-saving habits, and exploring available rebates, you can effectively manage and reduce your electricity costs. 

At Santanna, we make managing your energy costs simple and stress-free. With our innovative plans, you can choose options tailored to your needs, whether you’re looking for locked-in fixed-rate plans, predictable unlimited energy, or earth-friendly energy solutions.  

Our commitment to value and customer satisfaction ensures you can take control of your electricity bills while enjoying convenience and peace of mind. Explore Santanna’s plans today and see how we can help you find a plan for your lifestyle! 

* Restrictions apply. Enrollment based upon program eligibility. Customers using more than 125% of normal monthly usage as determined by Santanna may be required to switch plans. 

**For every Unlimited Energy gas or electricity initial enrollment or renewal, Santanna Energy Services will contribute corporate donations to a nonprofit organization in the Midwest after 60 days of billed usage. Plans may vary. See plan details for eligibility and current charity donation promotions.