How Much Is Electricity Per Month in an Apartment? Average Costs by Apartment Size

Key Points of This Article

• Most apartments use 300–1,100 kWh of electricity per month. 

• An apartment's electricity bills usually range from $52–$192 per month depending on electricity rate and usage. 

• Apartment electricity costs can vary significantly by state, with Midwest states like Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania electricity bills typically ranging from about $49–$222 per month depending on apartment size. 

• Heating and cooling systems are often the biggest drivers of apartment electricity usage, especially during extreme summer and winter weather. 

For many renters, electricity is one of those bills that can feel unclear at first. It can change from month to month, and it is not always obvious why. With over 31% of people in the U.S renting apartments, it's no secret why renters would want to fully understand where and how much many is going to utilities. 

According to ElectricRates.org, apartments typically use about 300 kWh to 1,100 kWh of elecricity per month,  meaning that the average apartment renter usually pays between $52 and $192 per month for electricity depending on size and daily usage and electricity rate. 

Looking for more? In this guide, we'll walk you through what a typical apartment electricity bill looks like, what factors influence your cost, and how to estimate your own usage so you can feel more prepared and in control of your energy expenses.

How Much Electricity Does an Apartment Use Per Month? 

Smaller apartments usually fall on the lower end for electricity use at around 300-600 kWh per month. Because there is less space to heat, cool, and power, electricity use is usually lower. 

Larger apartments tend to use more electricity at around 600-1,100 kWh per month. This is largely because due of more rooms, more lighting, and often more people using energy throughout the day (think roommates). 

Going from a small studio apartment to a large 3-bedroom apartment can nearly triple your monthly electricity usage and costs depending on your location, apartment setup, and energy habits. Here's how this breaks down:

How Much Does Electricity Cost Per Month in an Apartment?  

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average residential electricity rate was 17.45 cents per kWh as of January 2026. At this rate, most apartment dwellers pay between $52 and $192 per month for electricity, depending on unit size and usage. 

How to Estimate an Apartment Electricity Bill Before Moving In 

You can estimate your electricity bill before moving in by combining the apartment's expected energy use with the local electricity rate. 

This gives you a simple way to plan your monthly cost before you sign a lease. It will not be exact, but it can help you set a realistic budget. 

Step 1: Ask About Previous Electricity Bills 

One of the best ways to estimate apartment electricity costs is to ask the landlord, leasing office, or previous tenant about average monthly electricity bills. 

This gives you a real-world estimate based on: 

• the apartment layout  

• local weather  

• insulation quality  

• typical heating and cooling usage  

Even an estimated range can help you plan your monthly budget more accurately. 

Step 2: Check the Apartment Size and Heating Type 

Apartment size heavily affects electricity usage, especially for heating and cooling. 

It is also important to find out whether the apartment uses: 

• electric heating  

• gas heating  

• central air conditioning  

• window AC units  

Apartments with electric heating often have higher winter electricity bills because heating systems can use large amounts of electricity during cold weather. 

Step 3: Look Up Local Electricity Rates 

Electricity rates vary significantly by state and utility provider. 

For example, apartments in lower-rate states may spend far less on electricity than similar apartments in states with higher electricity prices. 

Checking the local residential electricity rate can help you estimate how much your apartment's energy usage may cost each month. 

Step 4: Estimate Monthly Electricity Usage 

Most apartments use somewhere between: 

• 300–450 kWh per month for studios  

• 400–600 kWh for 1-bedroom apartments  

• 600–900 kWh for 2-bedroom apartments  

• 800–1,100+ kWh for larger 3-bedroom apartments  

Your actual electricity usage may vary depending on: 

• occupancy  

• appliance use  

• remote work  

• air conditioning usage  

• apartment efficiency  

Step 5: Multiply Usage by the Electricity Rate 

To estimate your monthly electricity cost: 

kWh Usage × Electricity Rate = Monthly Electricity Cost 

For example: 

• 600 kWh × 17.45¢ per kWh ≈ $105 per month before taxes and delivery charges  

This simple calculation gives renters a practical way to estimate apartment electricity costs before moving in. 

Average Electric Bill for a Studio Apartment 

A studio apartment typically costs about $52 to $79 per month for electricity based on the national average electricity rate of 17.45¢ per kWh. Most studio apartments use around 300–450 kWh per month because they have less space to cool, heat, and power. 

Studio apartments usually have the lowest electricity bills, especially for single occupants with moderate air conditioning, appliance, and electronics use. 

Average Electric Bill for a 1-Bedroom Apartment 

A 1-bedroom apartment typically costs around $70 to $105 per month. 

This reflects slightly higher usage due to more space and additional rooms that need lighting, cooling, and power. 

Average Electric Bill for a 2-Bedroom Apartment 

A 2-bedroom apartment typically costs about $105 to $157 per month for electricity. Most 2-bedroom apartments use around 600–900 kWh per month, especially when multiple occupants are sharing the space. 

Larger living areas, additional appliances, and increased daily activity can all raise electricity usage throughout the month. 

Average Electric Bill for a 3-Bedroom Apartment 

A 3-bedroom apartment typically costs around $140 to $192 per month for electricity. Most 3-bedroom apartments use approximately 800–1,100 kWh per month, although costs can climb even higher in hot climates or high-rate states. 

Larger apartments often require more electricity for lighting, heating and cooling multiple rooms, cooking, laundry, and powering additional electronics throughout the day. 

How Much Is Electricity Per Month in an Apartment By State? 

Moving soon? Apartment electricity costs can vary dramatically depending on where you live. On a national level, your apartment electricity bill can range from about $50 to $200 per month in most cases. 

For example, apartments in lower-cost electricity states may spend around $35–$75 per month, while apartments in high-rate states like California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and New York may spend $150–$300+ per month depending on apartment size and air conditioning usage. 

According to U.S. Energy Information Administration residential electricity rate data from January 2026, states with higher electricity prices tend to see significantly higher apartment energy bills, even when electricity usage stays similar. 

From the data we gathered, we found that: 

• Apartment electricity costs in Midwest states like Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania typically range from about $49–$222 per month depending on apartment size. 

• Lower-cost states such as Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Oklahoma often see studio apartment electricity costs around $35–$59 per month and 3-bedroom apartment costs around $106–$144 per month.  

• Higher-cost states including California, Massachusetts, New York, and Hawaii can see apartment electricity bills exceed $300–$430 per month for larger apartments because electricity rates can reach 28–39¢ per kWh. 

How Your Apartment's Electricity Bill is Calculated 

Your electricity bill usually includes three main parts: the cost of the electricity you use, the cost to deliver it to your home, and taxes or other fees. Here's how it breaks down:  

Supply Charge 

The supply charge is the cost of the actual electricity your apartment uses. This portion of your bill is typically calculated by multiplying your electricity usage in kilowatt-hours by your electricity rate. 

Delivery Charge 

The delivery charge is a regulated fee from your utility that covers the cost of bringing electricity to your home. This includes maintaining power lines, equipment, and the overall system, as well as customer service. 

Other Charges 

Other charges on your electricity bill may include service fees, along with state and local taxes. These can vary depending on where you live and your utility provider, and they are typically added on top of your supply and delivery charges as part of your total bill. 

Many renters only look at the total amount due, but understanding each part of your bill can help you see where your money is going and make it easier to compare energy plans or track changes over time. 

What Are the Biggest Factors That Affect Your Apartment's Monthly Electricity Cost? 

Your apartment electricity bill is influenced by more than just apartment size. Weather, heating and cooling systems, appliance usage, electricity rates, and even your apartment's location within the building can all impact how much electricity you use each month. 

According to the E.I.A, heating and cooling alone can account for up to one third of your monthly electricity usage, especially during extreme summer and winter temperatures. 

Below are some of the biggest factors that can raise or lower your apartment electricity costs: 

Climate and Seasonal Weather 

Hot summers often mean your air conditioner runs longer to keep your space cool. Cold winters can also increase electricity use, especially if your apartment uses electric heating.  

In regions like the Midwest, seasonal temperature swings can cause noticeable changes in monthly electricity costs throughout the year. 

Heating and Cooling Systems (HVAC Systems) 

Heating and cooling systems are often the largest drivers of apartment electricity usage. 

Central air systems, portable air conditioners, window AC units, and electric heating systems can all use large amounts of electricity depending on how often they run and how efficient the equipment is. 

Apartments with older HVAC systems may use more electricity because the equipment has to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. 

Energy Efficiency of the Apartment 

Older or poorly insulated apartments often use more electricity because they lose heated or cooled air more easily. 

Drafty windows, weak insulation, air leaks, and older construction can all make heating and cooling systems run longer throughout the day. 

More energy-efficient apartments may stay comfortable longer while using less electricity. 

Your Daily Usage Habits 

Your habits affect your bill because they control how often you use electricity throughout the day. 

Spending more time at home means more lighting, more device use, and more heating or cooling. Activities like doing laundry, cooking often, or running multiple electronics at once can also add to your total usage over time. 

Your Apartment's Position Within the Building 

Your unit's location affects your bill because it changes how much heat your apartment gains or loses. 

Top-floor apartments tend to get warmer in the summer because heat rises, which can make your air conditioner work harder. Corner units are more exposed to outdoor temperatures, while middle units are often better insulated by surrounding apartments and may stay more stable. 

Number of People in the Apartment 

The number of people affects your bill because each person adds to daily energy use. 

More people means more lighting, device charging, cooking, laundry, and hot water use. Even small increases throughout the day can add up over a full month. 

Appliances and Electronics 

Appliances and electronics can significantly affect your apartment's monthly electricity usage, especially when high-energy devices are used frequently or left running for long periods. 

Large appliances like dryers, portable air conditioners, space heaters, ovens, and refrigerators often use some of the most electricity in an apartment. Everyday electronics such as gaming systems, desktop computers, TVs, and multiple monitors can also steadily increase energy usage over time. 

Changes in Electricity Rates 

Your bill can change even without using more electricity if your rate changes. 

Your electricity rate directly affects how much you pay for the energy your apartment uses. 

Even if two apartments use the same amount of electricity, the total monthly bill can vary depending on: 

• local electricity rates  

• utility pricing  

• state energy costs  

• energy plan type 

Can Renters Choose Their Apartment Electricity Provider? 

Some renters can choose their apartment electricity provider, but it depends on: 

• the state's energy market  

• how the apartment building is set up  

• whether the lease allows supplier choice 

In deregulated energy markets with energy choice, such as Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, you may be able to select your own electricity supplier instead of using the default utility.  

In these markets, renters may be able to compare electricity suppliers, rates, and plan structures depending on how electricity is handled within the apartment building. 

Not all renters have electricity supplier choice. You cannot choose your electricity supplier if some apartments include electricity directly in the rent or if your landlord or property manager controls the electricity account and supplier selection. 

Other apartment buildings may: 

• use a master-metered system  

• require electricity through a specific provider  

• operate in states without deregulated electricity markets  

In these situations, renters usually cannot switch electricity suppliers independently.  

Before moving into an apartment or switching electricity suppliers, renters should review their lease carefully to understand, who manages the electricity account, whether electricity is included in rent, if supplier switching is permitted, and which utility serves the building. 

If you want a deeper explanation of how this works and when renters can switch, you can read our full guide here. 

Why Your First Apartment Electricity Bill Might Be Higher Than Expected 

Your first apartment electricity bill can be higher than expected because it may include extra charges, a longer billing period, or higher usage during move-in. 

Below are the most common reasons: 

• Longer billing period: Your first bill may cover more days than a typical billing cycle, which means you are being charged for a longer period of electricity use.  

• One-time setup charges: You may see fees like a deposit, connection fee, or account setup fee. These are not part of your regular monthly bill but can make the first one look higher.  

• Higher usage during move-in: Moving in often means using more electricity than usual. Running the AC, keeping lights on longer, cleaning, and setting up appliances can all increase your usage during the first few days or weeks.  

• Carryover usage from before move-in: In some cases, your first bill may include electricity used before your official move-in date, depending on when your account started or how the meter was read.  

Because of these factors, your first bill is not always a good example of what you will pay each month. After your first one or two billing cycles, your electricity cost usually becomes more consistent and easier to predict. 

How Can You Lower Your Apartment Electricity Bill? 

You can lower your apartment's electricity bill by reducing how much energy you use each day and making small changes that help your heating and cooling system run more efficiently. 

These simple habits can make a noticeable difference over time without requiring major upgrades. 

Adjust Your Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat to 70–78°F when at home, and to 82–88°F at night or when you are away for energy savings in the summer. In the winter, aim for 68–70°F during the day, lowering it to 64–66°F at night and 60–62°F when you are away.  

Use LED Lighting: LEDs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, making them a simple and effective way to lower your monthly usage. 

Turn Off Unused Electronics: Turn off lights, TVs, and devices when you are not using them. Many electronics continue to use small amounts of electricity when left on or in standby mode, so turning them off can help reduce unnecessary energy use. 

Use Fans When Possible: Fans use much less electricity than air conditioning, so using them when possible can help reduce how often your AC needs to run. 

Keep Blinds Closed During Hot Days: This helps keep your apartment cooler, which can reduce the need for constant air conditioning. 

Wash Clothes in Cold Water: If you have your own laundry unit, using cold water for laundry can reduce energy use. Heating water requires electricity, so switching to cold water can help lower your overall usage without affecting most loads. 

Run Full Loads for Laundry and Dishes: Only run your washer, dryer, or dishwasher when you have a full load. This helps you get the most out of each cycle and reduces how often these appliances need to run. 

Keep Air Vents Clear: Make sure furniture or other items are not blocking your air vents. Clear airflow helps your heating and cooling system work more efficiently, which can reduce energy use. 

Change or Clean Air Filters Regularly: If your apartment allows it, check and replace air filters as needed. A clean filter helps your system run more smoothly and prevents it from working harder than necessary. 

Cook Smarter to Reduce Heat: Try using smaller appliances like microwaves or air fryers instead of the oven when possible. These options use less energy and produce less heat, which can help keep your apartment cooler and reduce AC use. 

FAQs  

What uses the most electricity in an apartment? 

Heating and cooling systems use the most electricity, followed by appliances like dryers, ovens, and air conditioners. 

Does electricity cost more in summer or winter? 

Electricity often costs more in the summer due to air conditioning use, but winter costs can also be high if your apartment uses electric heating. 

Do smaller apartments always have lower electricity bills? 

Smaller apartments often use less electricity, but not always. Your habits, appliance use, and heating or cooling system can still lead to higher bills. 

Is electricity usually included in apartment rent? 

Electricity is sometimes included in rent, but in many apartments, renters pay for it separately. It depends on the lease and property setup. 

Can two apartments have different electricity bills even if they are the same size? 

Yes, electricity bills can differ due to location, electricity rates, building efficiency, and how much energy each household uses. 

Most apartment electricity bills fall within a predictable range, but your total cost still comes down to how much energy you use, the rate you pay, and your daily habits. 

This matters because weather and changing rates can shift your bill from month to month, even when your routine stays the same. 

If understanding your bill helps you stay in control, having a more predictable supply charge can make that even easier. Enrolling in an Unlimited Energy plan can help bring more consistency to your monthly energy costs,* so your bill feels less like a surprise and more like something you can plan around. 

* 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.