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Report: Mass. residents pay more overall for utilities than all but 2 states
This Old House reported that utility bills in Massachusetts are costing households $696.52 per month, compared with a national average of $643.67.
As home prices and monthly rent continue topping out, the last thing Massachusetts residents may want is another costly bill. But a new report says households here are paying more for utilities than residents in nearly every state.
This Old House reported that utility bills in Massachusetts exceed those in all but two states: Connecticut and Hawaii. Households are paying $696.52 on average per month for gas, electricity, and water, as well as internet, cable, phone, and sewer service, the internet publication of the storied TV show reported.
Utility prices are generally higher in New England than other parts of the country: Connecticut topped the list, New Hampshire ranked No. 4, and Maine placed No. 6.
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Among utilities, phone coverage ($166 per month) cost the most followed by electricity ($149.91 per month) for Massachusetts households, This Old House reported while pointing out that the state “boasts the lowest percentage of income spent on utilities (6.2%) among the top five states …
“Massachusetts residents benefit from a robust economy with healthcare, education, and technology sectors that offer higher-paying jobs,” the report reads. “The state’s commitment to clean energy, as outlined in the Massachusetts Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2025 and 2030, includes initiatives that aim to transition to sustainable energy sources and improve energy efficiency.”
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The total monthly average cost for utilities in the United States is $643.67, it said. The price of utilities in Massachusetts matches the higher-than-average cost of housing here, which ranks among the costliest in the nation and continues to increase.
Policies boosting sustainable energy mitigate costs for residents, This Old House said. The website analyzed data from a variety of companies and public agencies in its report that did not include garbage bills due to what it called “a lack of reliable state-by-state estimates.”
This Old House suggested people use energy-efficient appliances, unplug devices, and perform HVAC maintenance to reduce their electric bill. To save on their phone coverage, they should look for promotional offers and take advantage of multi-line discounts, it said.
After electricity and phone, Massachusetts households spend the most on gas ($130.08 per month), This Old House reported, paying less than only Maine and Alaska residents. It recommended that people upgrade their insulation and adjust thermostat settings to reduce the expense.
Households in the Bay State also pay $34 per month on water, which This Old House said residents can reduce by fixing leaks, running dishwashers and washing machines only when they are full, and collecting rainwater to care for plants.
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Massachusetts households spend $89.53 per month on their sewer bill, according to This Old House, which recommended that they use appliances that are efficient.
Internet and cable cost Massachusetts households $127 on average, This Old House said. It recommended that people combine internet and cable, cancel premium cable packages, and use competitor offers to negotiate for better rates.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development lists a variety of services that may help Massachusetts residents pay their utility bills.
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