Average Electric Bill for a 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartment

Whether you're moving into your first apartment or looking to manage your household expenses, understanding your monthly electricity costs is key. Often, electricity bills can be the most significant household utility cost, but they're also fairly easy to control and reduce! So how much should you actually expect to pay for electricity in a 1 or 2-bedroom apartment? While the answer depends on several factors—from your location to your lifestyle—this guide will break down what you can typically expect to spend and how you can reduce your costs.

What Is the Average Electric Bill for a 1-Bedroom Apartment?

The average United States residential electricity bill is around $149.37/month. However, for smaller apartments, electricity costs vary:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment: Typically, $60–$113/month depending on climate and occupancy
• 2-Bedroom Apartment:Typically, $76–$150/month 

How Much Electricity Do Apartments Use (in kWh)?

Electric bills are based on electricity consumption, which is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Looking at average monthly electricity consumption is a key first step in understanding the average electric bill for a one- or two-bedroom apartment.

• 1-Bedroom Apartment typically uses around 750 kWh/month
• 2-Bedroom Apartment typically uses between 700 and 1000 kWh/month

It is important to note that local electricity rates vary between states and even cities. The local electricity rate is important to consider when estimating the average electricity bill for a 1- or 2-bedroom apartment.

Factors like air conditioning, heating, and appliance usage will also drive these totals higher or lower. The number of residents in a 1- or 2-bedroom apartment will also impact electricity usage and cost. More residents drive up the cost; however, this is often balanced by splitting the bill.

State-by-State Variations in Electric Bills

As we mentioned, it is important to consider that electricity prices vary widely across the United States. The states with the highest electricity costs are Connecticut, Hawaii, and Rhode Island. On the other hand, Montana, New Mexico, and Utah have some of the lowest rates.

Here are examples of monthly averages for apartments in states with the highest and lowest costs.

Tip: If you live in a high-cost state, energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy options like community solar can provide meaningful savings.

What Appliances Drive the Biggest Costs?

Some appliances are more impactful than others in driving up apartment electricity costs. Being mindful of these can help keep your budget in check.

Heating & Cooling (HVAC): 40–50% of your electricity bill

Water Heater: 14–18% of your electricity bill

Refrigerator: 7–13% of your electricity bill

Lighting: 9-15% of your electricity bill

“Vampire Power” from plugged-in appliances: 5–10% of your electricity bill

Practical Tips to Lower Your Electric Bill

Even small changes can cut costs significantly. Here are some simple strategies that can help (RentCafe and EcoFlow):

• Switch to LED bulbs – LED lightbulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Use smart power strips – Power strips can help prevent energy waste from devices left plugged in.
• Adjust your thermostat – Raising your thermostat 2–3 degrees in summer or lowering it in winter can save you ~10% annually.
• Run full appliance loads – Avoid running half loads; wait until your dishwasher and washing machine are full before running.
• Seal windows and doors – Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed and insulated to minimize energy loss from heating and cooling.

How Community Solar Can Help Reduce Apartment Electricity Costs

It is easy to feel powerless against rising energy prices, but community solar provides a real, accessible solution.

With Nexamp Community Solar, you can:

• Subscribe to a share of a local solar farm.
• Receive credits on your utility bill each month.
• Save annually on your electricity costs without installing panels.

Community solar is a great option for tackling high electricity bills in a 1- or 2-bedroom apartment because there is no installation required, making it accessible to renters!

If you’re worried about rising electricity bills for your 1- or 2-bedroom apartment and looking for a simple way to reduce them at no upfront cost, consider signing up for community solar!