Understanding Utilities in NYC Apartments – 2026 Guide

When renting an apartment in New York City, understanding utilities is essential for budgeting and avoiding surprises. Utilities can significantly affect your monthly rent cost, so it’s important to know what is included and how to manage them.

Common Utilities in NYC Apartments

1. Electricity

Electricity is typically used for lighting, appliances, and sometimes air conditioning. In many NYC apartments, tenants are responsible for paying electricity separately from rent.

• Average monthly cost: $50–$100, depending on apartment size and usage.
• Providers: Con Edison is the main electricity provider in most of NYC.

2. Gas

Gas is used for heating, hot water, and cooking. Some apartments include gas in the rent, while others require tenants to pay separately.

• Average monthly cost: $40–$150, higher in winter due to heating.
• Provider: Con Edison (electricity & gas) is common in Manhattan and Brooklyn; National Grid serves parts of Queens and Brooklyn.

3. Water and Sewer

Many apartments in NYC include water and sewer charges in the rent, especially in larger buildings or co-ops. Always confirm with your landlord what is included.

4. Internet and Cable

Internet is essential for work, school, and entertainment. Most apartments do not include it in rent.

• Average cost: $40–$100 per month, depending on speed and provider.
• Popular providers: Spectrum, Verizon Fios, Optimum.

5. Heating

Heating is often included in rent, especially in pre-war or newer buildings, but some units require tenants to pay separately during winter.

• Check if your lease mentions “heat included” or “tenant pays heat.”
• Heating costs can be significant in older buildings during the winter months.

Tips for Managing Utilities

• Ask landlords upfront about which utilities are included.
• Set up accounts for utilities you are responsible for immediately after moving in.
• Track your usage to avoid high bills, especially for electricity and heating.
• Consider energy-saving appliances and habits to reduce monthly costs.

Budgeting Utilities

On average, tenants in a one-bedroom NYC apartment may pay:

• Electricity: $50–$100
• Gas/Heating: $40–$150
• Internet: $40–$100
• Water/Sewer: Often included

Always add utilities to your rental budget to avoid surprises.

Final Advice

Understanding which utilities are included and which you must pay separately is key to living comfortably and staying within your budget in New York City. Always ask landlords for details, compare options, and plan your monthly expenses accordingly.