If you’re new to the city, Chicago utility costs for renters can feel like a surprise guest at your housewarming party. The rent looks manageable—until the first winter gas bill shows up like it owns the place. After years of covering housing in this city, I can tell you this: understanding utilities in Chicago is just as important as understanding your lease.
Before you sign anything, here’s what Chicago utility costs for renters actually look like, neighborhood by neighborhood, season by season.
What Utilities Are Renters Responsible for in Chicago?
First things first: not all Chicago apartments are created equal.
In most rental properties, tenants are responsible for:
- Electricity (through Commonwealth Edison)
- Natural gas (through Peoples Gas)
- Internet and cable
- Sometimes water and trash (depending on building type)
Landlords often cover:
- Water (especially in mid- and high-rise buildings)
- Trash collection
- Heat in older buildings with radiator systems
Always check the lease. “Heat included” in Chicago is the difference between sleeping comfortably in January and arguing with your thermostat at 2 a.m.
Electricity Costs in Chicago Apartments
Let’s start with your electric bill.
Who Provides Electricity?
Most renters get their power from Commonwealth Edison (ComEd). You may see alternative suppliers advertised, but many Chicago renters stick with ComEd’s standard rate.
What Does Electricity Typically Cost?
Average monthly electric bill in Chicago apartments:
- Studio: $40–$70
- 1-bedroom: $60–$100
- 2-bedroom: $90–$150
Summer is when things spike.
If your apartment has central AC and you like your place Arctic-cool during a July heat wave, expect bills on the higher end. Lakefront high-rises with big windows? Beautiful views. Also beautiful solar heat traps.
Real-world example:
A renter in Logan Square with a 1-bedroom, window AC units, and work-from-home setup averages:
- $65 in spring/fall
- $110 in peak summer
Natural Gas: The Winter Wild Card
This is where Chicago utility costs for renters get real.
Who Provides Gas?
Natural gas in Chicago is handled by Peoples Gas.
Average Monthly Gas Bills
- Summer: $20–$40
- Fall/Spring: $40–$90
- Winter: $100–$250+
Yes, you read that correctly.
Older buildings with poor insulation and drafty windows can push winter bills past $300 during polar vortex months. If heat is included in your rent, consider that a small miracle.
Radiator vs. Forced Air
- Radiator heat (landlord-paid in many buildings): More stable, less surprise.
- Forced air (tenant-paid gas): More control, but higher winter risk.
Ask current tenants what their highest winter bill was. They’ll tell you the truth faster than a leasing agent will.
Water, Sewer, and Trash: Usually Included
In most Chicago apartments, water is covered by the landlord.
However:
- Some smaller two-flats may pass water costs to tenants.
- Luxury buildings may bill back water usage separately.
If water is separate, expect:
- $25–$60 per month depending on usage.
The city of Chicago continues to update metering systems, and some newer buildings use individual submeters.
Internet and Cable Costs
Internet in Chicago runs:
- Basic high-speed: $50–$80 per month
- Premium plans: $90–$120 per month
Major providers include:
- Xfinity
- AT&T
- RCN
Some high-rises offer bulk internet deals, which can reduce pricing to $40–$60 monthly.
Total Monthly Utility Budget: What First-Timers Should Plan For
Here’s a realistic average for Chicago utility costs for renters in 2026:
Studio Apartment:
- Electricity: $50
- Gas (avg year-round): $75
- Internet: $70
Total: $195 per month average
1-Bedroom Apartment:
- Electricity: $85
- Gas: $100 (averaged across year)
- Internet: $75
Total: $260 per month average
2-Bedroom Apartment:
- Electricity: $120
- Gas: $150
- Internet: $80
Total: $350 per month average
Winter months may be $100–$200 higher depending on insulation and heating system.
Neighborhood Differences That Impact Utility Bills
Utilities aren’t just about square footage.
High-Rise Downtown Buildings
- Better insulation
- Electric heat common
- Higher electricity bills
- Lower gas bills
Vintage Walk-Ups in Lakeview, Wicker Park, Logan Square
- Draftier windows
- Radiator systems (sometimes included heat)
- Gas spikes if tenant-controlled
Garden Units
- Cooler in summer
- Potentially higher humidity
- Lower AC costs
Chicago’s building age varies block by block. What you save in rent in a 1920s building might show up on your Peoples Gas bill in January.
Tips to Reduce Chicago Utility Costs for Renters
- Install plastic window insulation in winter.
- Use smart thermostats if allowed.
- Ask if the building offers energy-efficient appliances.
- Close blinds during summer heat waves.
- Compare electricity suppliers carefully before switching.
A little prep can save hundreds annually.
What First-Time Renters Forget
Most renters focus on:
- Rent
- Security deposit
- Move-in fees
They forget utilities.
That extra $250–$350 per month can change your real cost of living fast. Chicago utility costs for renters should always be calculated before signing a lease—not after your first billing cycle shock.
Summary: What You Should Budget
If you’re relocating or renting your first Chicago apartment:
- Budget $200–$350 monthly for utilities.
- Expect winter spikes.
- Ask directly about heat and water inclusion.
- Compare building age and heating systems.
Chicago is an incredible city to live in—but it is not gentle with winter gas bills.
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