So you're moving to Portland: Brace Yourself for (Relatively) Affordable Utility Bills (and Possibly Rain)
Ah, Portland. The land of quirky coffee shops, microbreweries, and... affordable utilities? That's right, unlike some other trendy cities (looking at you, San Francisco with your $200 electric bills), Portland offers a decent bang for your utility buck. But before you start picturing yourself living in a mansion heated solely by burning dollar bills (please don't do that), let's break down the cost of keeping the lights on (and the oat milk steamer chugging) in Portland.
The Nitty Gritty: Numbers Don't Lie (But They Can Be a Bit Fuzzy)
Here's the truth: pinning down an exact amount for your utility bill is like trying to predict the weather in Portland (spoiler alert: it might rain). It depends on a bunch of factors, including:
- The size of your digs: A sprawling mansion will obviously cost more to heat and cool than a cozy studio apartment.
- Your energy habits: Do you leave the lights on like a Broadway show, or are you a convertibility-in-the-winter kind of person?
- The season: Summer means cranking up the AC (if you even have one), while winter brings the battle against the damp chill.
But fear not, intrepid adventurer! Here's a general guideline:
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- Basic utilities (electricity, heat, gas, garbage): Around $188 per month This covers the essentials for keeping your life (and your burrito) warm.
- Water: The city adjusts rates annually, but the average single-family home uses about $60.66 per month on water. Plus, a fun fact: one gallon of Portland water costs just a penny! So, go ahead and water that victory garden.
- Internet: Plan on spending around $60 extra per month to stay connected and binge-watch all those shows about tiny houses (because that's what you'll be able to afford after moving to Portland).
The Bottom Line: You Won't Break the Bank (But Maybe Your Resolution to Take Shorter Showers)
So, compared to other major cities, Portland's utility costs are pretty sweet. You'll likely have more money left over for that artisanal avocado toast (because priorities).
Pro Tip: Consider ways to conserve energy (and money) like switching to LED light bulbs, taking shorter showers (sorry, California), and unplugging electronics when not in use. Every little bit helps!
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| How Much Are Utility Bills In Portland |
FAQs: You Asked, We Answered (Briefly)
How to keep my utility bills low in Portland?
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
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- Embrace the "unplug and unwind" philosophy - power down electronics when not in use.
- Layer up in winter (or down in summer) to avoid cranking the heat/AC.
- Take shorter showers (we know, we said it already, but seriously).
How much does water cost in Portland?
The average single-family home uses about $60.66 per month on water.
How much is internet in Portland?
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
Expect to pay around $60 extra per month for internet.
How can I find out more about Portland's water rates?
The City of Portland has all the info you need on their website
Is the rain in Portland really that bad?
Let's just say you might want to invest in a good raincoat (and a positive attitude).
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