Setting up utilities for a new apartment comes with some upfront costs, but planning ahead can help you budget effectively. Whether you’re moving into an apartment in Austin, TX, or an apartment in Portland, OR, you’ll need to account for electricity, water, internet, and gas. In this ApartmentGuide article, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay and factors that influence the total cost.
1. Electricity
Electricity is a primary utility required to power your apartment, including lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems. Tip: Call your electricity provider at least two weeks before moving in to avoid service delays.
- Connection fees: Initial connection fees typically range from $30 to $100, depending on your utility provider. These fees cover activating the service and ensuring your apartment is connected to the electrical grid.
- Deposits: If you have no credit history or poor credit, you may need to pay a deposit ranging from $100 to $300. Some companies waive deposits with a letter of credit from a previous utility provider.
- Total estimated cost: $30 to $400.
Use the Energy Star website to find energy-efficient appliances that can help lower your utility costs over time.
2. Water and sewer
Water and sewer services are essential for running water in your apartment for drinking, cooking, and bathing, as well as for waste management. Tip: Many apartments include water in rent, so check with your property manager before setting up an account.
- Connection fees: Activation fees for water and sewer services range from $25 to $75. These fees cover the setup of water flow and sewer connections to your apartment.
- Deposits: These can vary between $50 and $200 based on your credit history or rental agreement.
- Total estimated cost: $75 to $275.
3. Natural gas
Natural gas is often used for heating, cooking, and running certain appliances in apartments, such as stoves and water heaters. Most large apartment complexes cover gas in rent, but renters in older buildings, duplexes, or homes converted into apartments may need to set up their own gas service. It’s always best to check your lease or ask the landlord before assuming you’ll need to pay for it.
Tip: If you’re moving in during winter, confirm the gas is turned on in advance to ensure heating is ready.
- Connection fees: Initial setup fees typically cost $30 to $70, covering the activation of your apartment’s gas line and ensuring safe delivery of gas services.
- Deposits: Expect to pay a deposit between $50 and $150 if required. Many providers waive deposits for tenants with good credit or a history of on-time payments.
- Total estimated cost: $80 to $220.
4. Internet, cable, and phone
These services are essential for staying connected, accessing entertainment, and working from home. Tip: Ask your internet provider about self-installation kits to save on setup fees.
- Setup fees: Internet and cable providers charge installation fees ranging from $50 to $200, covering the setup of necessary infrastructure, such as wiring and equipment installation. Many waive these fees during promotions.
- Equipment costs: Renting a modem and router can add $10 to $20 per month, or you can purchase equipment outright for $100 to $300.
- Total estimated cost: $50 to $500, depending on promotions and equipment choices.
5. Trash and recycling
These services handle waste disposal and recycling for your apartment, ensuring cleanliness and proper waste management. Tip: Confirm your apartment’s trash pickup schedule to avoid missed collections.
- Setup fees: Initial setup fees are usually between $10 and $50, covering the activation of waste pickup services for your apartment.
- Monthly costs: Depending on your city or private provider, expect to pay $20 to $50 per month for trash and recycling services.
- Total estimated cost: $10 to $100.
6. Homeowners’ association (HOA) utilities
If you’re moving into an apartment community with an HOA, some utilities (e.g., water, trash) may be included in your dues. Confirm with your HOA to understand which utilities you’ll need to set up independently.
Factors that affect the cost of setting up utilities
- Credit history: Poor credit can increase deposit requirements for utilities.
- Location: Utility costs vary significantly by region due to local regulations, provider competition, and cost of living.
- Type of property: Larger apartments or properties with additional amenities may have higher setup costs.
- Provider promotions: Some companies waive fees for new customers or during special offers.
- Renter vs. homeowner: Apartment renters may have fewer setup costs if landlords handle some utilities, such as water or trash services.
Use our rental calculator to estimate how much rent you can afford and better plan your budget before moving into your new apartment.
Additional tips to save money on utility setup
- Negotiate fees: Call providers and ask if they can reduce or waive setup fees.
- Track usage: Use energy-efficient appliances and tools to keep costs down after setup.
- Shop around: For services like internet and cable, compare providers for the best deals.
- Request a deposit waiver: Provide a letter of credit from previous utility providers.
- Bundle services: Many companies offer discounts when you bundle internet, cable, and phone services.
- Ask about promotions: Check if setup fees can be waived as part of a promotion.
- Consider prepaid utilities: Some electricity providers offer prepaid plans with no deposit requirement.
Estimated total cost to set up utilities for the first time
The total cost to turn on utilities for the first time ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on your location, providers, and specific needs. Planning and budgeting for these expenses can help you avoid surprises and ease your transition into your new home.