Boston

1. Electricity

Service Provider

• Eversource Energy: Eversource is the primary electricity provider in Boston. It serves most of Massachusetts and is responsible for delivering electricity to homes and businesses.

Average Costs

• The average monthly electricity bill in Boston is approximately $120–$160, depending on the size of your home, energy usage, and the season (higher in winter due to heating needs).
• Rates are typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), and as of 2023, the average rate is around $0.25–$0.30 per kWh.

Billing and Payment

• Bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, via mail, or through automatic bank withdrawals.
• Eversource offers a Budget Billing Plan, which averages your annual usage into predictable monthly payments to avoid seasonal spikes.

Local Considerations

• Boston winters can be harsh, so electricity usage for heating may increase significantly. Consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce costs.
• You can choose a third-party energy supplier for potentially lower rates, but Eversource will still handle delivery and billing.

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2. Natural Gas

Service Provider

• National Grid: National Grid is the primary provider of natural gas in Boston.

Average Costs

• The average monthly gas bill ranges from $50–$150, depending on the season and whether you use gas for heating, cooking, or hot water.
• Gas rates are measured in therms, and the cost per therm varies but is typically around $1.50–$2.00.

Billing and Payment

• Bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, by mail, or through automatic payments.
• National Grid also offers a Balanced Billing Plan to spread out costs evenly throughout the year.

Local Considerations

• Many Boston homes use natural gas for heating, so expect higher bills in the winter.
• If you’re renting, check with your landlord to see if gas is included in your rent.

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3. Water and Sewer

Service Provider

• Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC): BWSC manages water and sewer services for Boston residents.

Average Costs

• The average monthly water and sewer bill is around $50–$100, depending on household size and water usage.
• Rates are based on water consumption, measured in cubic feet (CF) or gallons.

Billing and Payment

• Bills are issued quarterly (every three months) and can be paid online, by mail, or in person at BWSC offices.
• BWSC offers an Automatic Payment Plan for convenience.

Local Considerations

• Boston’s tap water is of high quality and safe to drink, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
• Be mindful of water usage, as excessive consumption can lead to higher sewer charges (sewer fees are calculated based on water usage).

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4. Internet, Cable, and Phone

Major Providers

• Xfinity (Comcast): The most widely available provider for internet, cable TV, and phone services.
• Verizon Fios: Offers high-speed fiber-optic internet and TV services in some areas of Boston.
• RCN (Astound Broadband): Another option for internet and cable, available in select neighborhoods.

Average Costs

• Internet: $50–$100 per month, depending on speed and provider.
• Cable TV: $50–$150 per month, depending on the package.
• Bundled services (internet, cable, and phone): $100–$200 per month.

Billing and Payment

• Bills are issued monthly and can be paid online, via mail, or through automatic payments.
• Many providers offer discounts for bundling services or signing up for autopay.

Local Considerations

• Boston has a competitive market for internet services, so shop around for the best deals.
• If you’re a student, check for special discounts or promotions tailored to college students.

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5. Trash and Recycling

Service Provider

• Trash and recycling collection in Boston is managed by the City of Boston Public Works Department.

Costs

• Trash and recycling services are included in property taxes, so there’s no separate bill for most residents.
• If you live in a private building or complex, your landlord may hire a private waste management company, and costs may be included in your rent.

Local Considerations

• Trash is collected weekly, and recycling is single-stream (all recyclables go in one bin).
• Check the city’s website for your neighborhood’s collection schedule and rules for disposing of large items or hazardous waste.

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6. Heating (Oil)

Service Providers

• Some older homes in Boston use heating oil instead of natural gas. Oil delivery companies like Petro Home Services or Devaney Energy provide this service.

Average Costs

• Heating oil costs vary depending on market prices but typically range from $3.50–$5.00 per gallon.
• The average household uses 100–150 gallons per month during the winter, leading to monthly costs of $350–$750.

Billing and Payment

• Oil is usually delivered on a schedule or as needed, and you pay per delivery.
• Many companies offer payment plans to spread out costs over the year.

Local Considerations

• If your home uses oil heat, consider signing up for a price protection plan to lock in rates during the winter.

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7. Tips for Newcomers

1. Set Up Utilities Early: Contact utility providers at least 1–2 weeks before moving in to ensure services are activated by your move-in date.
2. Understand Your Lease: If you’re renting, clarify with your landlord which utilities are included in your rent and which you’re responsible for.
3. Energy Efficiency: Boston winters are cold, and summers can be humid. Invest in energy-efficient appliances, LED bulbs, and weatherproofing to save on utility bills.
4. Payment Assistance Programs: If you’re struggling to pay your bills, both Eversource and National Grid offer assistance programs for low-income households.
5. Monitor Usage: Many providers offer online tools to track your usage and identify ways to save money.
6. Recycling Rules: Boston has strict recycling rules. Familiarize yourself with what can and cannot be recycled to avoid fines.

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Conclusion

Navigating utilities in Boston is straightforward once you understand the key providers, average costs, and local considerations. By planning ahead, monitoring your usage, and taking advantage of available programs, you can manage your utility expenses effectively while enjoying life in this vibrant city.