With any Chicago apartment, the cost of rent is not the only expense you should budget for. While rent may be a fixed cost, you must also allocate additional funds for monthly utility bills, as they may fluctuate depending on the season.
Some Chicago apartments may include certain utilities within your rent, like sewer and water, but most properties typically require you to sign up for your own accounts before moving in.
But how much are we talking about?
Let’s dive into the average utilities costs in Chicago and ways you can save as a renter.
A Budget Guide to the Average Utilities Costs in Chicago for Apartment Renters
The average utilities costs in Chicago will vary, as it depends on where you live. If you live in an urban Chicago neighborhood, utility bills may be higher since these areas are usually more densely populated and have higher service demands than the surrounding suburbs.
The season also fluctuates costs, such as higher electricity bills in summer due to more air conditioning usage and in winter with higher heat consumption.
Below, we’ll break down the average rates for Chicago utilities and the factors that contribute to them.
Understanding the Average Electric Bill in Chicago
The average electric bill in Chicago is $149 per month, but it’s likely lower for apartments due to the smaller property size than houses.
Electricity is normally the highest monthly utility expense and can increase based on your usage and lifestyle, including:
•Work-from-home professionals
•Electric stoves
•High and consistent use of electric devices, such as video games, TVs, and air conditioners
Your utility provider also impacts your bills, as they have various electricity rates in Chicago.
Tips for Saving on Electricity Utility Bills
As an apartment renter, there are various ways you can help reduce your electricity utility bills and save on monthly expenses, including:
•Turning off all lights when you’re not home
•Maximizing natural light during the day
•Swapping regular light bulbs for LED bulbs as they’re more energy-efficient
•Unplugging unused appliances or using smart power strips for appliances to enter standby when they’re not in use
Understanding the Average Gas Bill in Chicago
The average gas bill in Chicago is $96.99 per month, but it may be lower for apartments. Natural gas utility rates will vary by location, provider, and the type of appliance you have.
For example, if you have a gas-powered stove, this will contribute to higher gas utility bills than an electric-powered one. Central air conditioning is also powered by electricity, typically reducing your natural gas usage.
Tips for Saving on Natural Gas Utility Bills
Some ways to help lower your monthly expenses from natural gas utilities include:
•Using air fryers as much as possible over gas-powered stoves for cooking
•Changing your HVAC filters every three months
•Adjusting your thermostat to a few degrees warmer when leaving for vacation or long travel
Understanding the Average Water Bill in Chicago
The average water bill in Chicago is $4.89 per 1,000 gallons. Based on the average daily water use of 100 gallons indoors, you can expect to pay around $50 per month. Chicago apartment properties with on-site laundry facilities may cover water utility expenses, so be sure to verify who is responsible for these costs before signing a lease.
If your landlord doesn’t include water utilities as an expense in your rent, these rates can increase based on your usage. Taking multiple showers daily and doing laundry more frequently with in-unit appliances can contribute to higher water utility costs.
Tips for Saving on Water Utility Bills
Some ways to help lower your monthly expenses from water utilities include:
•Using eco cycle modes on your in-unit washer and dryers
•Installing non-permanent smart faucet adapters and detachable smart shower heads to conserve water
•Checking your faucets for leaks and contacting maintenance to fix them promptly
Understanding the Average Internet Bill in Chicago
The average internet bill in Chicago ranges from $55 to $95 per month, depending on the provider and package. If you sign up for a high-speed internet connection plan, such as fiber-optic or satellite, your expenses will be higher than lower-speed ones, such as cable and 5G.
The total number of devices connected to your internet package will also impact costs as more devices are added.
Tips for Saving on Internet Utility Bills
Some ways to help lower your monthly expenses from internet utilities include:
•Downgrading to a lower-speed internet connection that still functions as needed
•Combining internet plans with TV and phone for lower-cost bundle package options
•Checking the number of connected devices and disconnecting any that aren’t necessary
•Researching other internet providers if they aren’t assigned to your property
Chicago Apartment Utilities FAQs:
Does Chicago Require Electric and Heating Disclosure for Apartment Leases?
Yes, the City of Chicago requires landlords to provide utility cost disclosures, including electric and heating usage, as part of the lease agreement. This information must be disclosed for new, extended, and renewal leases.
What Utilities Are Included in Rent?
Included utilities with rent vary depending on the apartment property or the landlord. In Chicago, most typically cover sewer utilities as an expense in rent and water utilities for properties with on-site laundry facilities.
Find Your Chicago Apartment That Balances Cost, Comfort, & Convenience
Considering moving to an apartment in the Chicagoland area? At TLC Management Co., we have over 30 properties within and around Chicago, each with unique amenities for all lifestyles.
From desirable city and suburban locations to responsive service and reasonable rent prices, we’re committed to ensuring the best renting experience for our residents–as it should be.
Browse our Chicago apartment listings or contact us at info@chicagorentals.com to schedule a tour today!
