The average utilities cost in Los Angeles for 2025–2026 ranges from $210 to $420 per month for a standard 1-bedroom apartment, depending on location, household size, and usage habits. This includes essential services like electricity, water, natural gas, internet, and trash collection. While Los Angeles enjoys mild weather most of the year, air conditioning and heating costs during summer and winter can significantly affect monthly bills. Utility rates also vary by borough — with Downtown LA and Beverly Hills being more expensive than areas like the San Fernando Valley or South LA.
Average monthly utilities in Los Angeles cost $210–$420 in 2025–2026, covering electricity, water, gas, and internet. Learn borough-wise costs, saving tips, and typical household expenses.
Average Monthly Utilities Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Utility costs in Los Angeles depend on energy consumption, apartment size, and the number of residents. Apartments with efficient appliances and LED lighting often pay less, while homes with central air and high water usage spend more.
• Electricity: $90–$150 per month depending on air conditioning use and appliance efficiency.
• Water and sewer: $40–$75 monthly, affected by lawn watering and household size.
• Natural gas: $25–$60 per month, higher during colder months for heating and cooking.
• Trash and recycling: $30–$40 monthly, managed by the City of Los Angeles Sanitation Department.
• Internet and cable: $60–$120 monthly for 300–600 Mbps speed packages.
Electricity Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Electricity is provided primarily by Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP). Rates depend on tiered pricing, meaning higher usage leads to higher rates.
• Average electricity cost: $0.24–$0.30 per kWh for residential users.
• Monthly bill for 1-bedroom unit: $90–$130 on average.
• Energy-efficient homes: Pay 15–25% less with LED lighting and modern appliances.
• Peak usage months: July–September, when AC usage increases electricity bills.
• Green power programs: LADWP offers renewable energy credits for eco-conscious households.
Water and Sewer Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Water rates in Los Angeles have increased gradually due to drought management and infrastructure improvements. Bills vary depending on neighborhood and water consumption.
• Average cost: $0.09–$0.12 per gallon for household use.
• Monthly residential water bill: $40–$75 depending on usage.
• Sewer service charge: Roughly $20–$30 monthly based on water discharge levels.
• High-usage households: Pay additional fees under tiered water rate structures.
• Water-saving rebates: Available for low-flow toilets, smart sprinklers, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
Natural Gas Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Natural gas is supplied by SoCalGas, and pricing depends on consumption and seasonal demand.
• Average residential rate: $1.30–$1.60 per therm.
• Monthly bill: $25–$60 for cooking and water heating; winter usage may exceed $80.
• Energy-efficient appliances: Gas stoves and heaters with Energy Star ratings can reduce costs by up to 15%.
• Billing period: 28–31 days depending on the meter cycle.
• Safety fees: SoCalGas includes a small safety and maintenance charge on each bill.
Internet and Cable Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Internet services are essential for both students and professionals, with multiple providers offering competitive rates.
• Basic internet plans: $45–$65 per month for 200–300 Mbps speed.
• Mid-tier packages: $75–$100 per month for 500–600 Mbps.
• High-speed fiber: $110–$130 monthly for gigabit plans (1 Gbps).
• Top providers: Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and Xfinity dominate most neighborhoods.
• Bundled services: Save up to 20% when combining internet, cable, and phone.
Borough-Wise Utilities Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Utility expenses differ by borough based on housing type, energy usage, and provider coverage.
• Downtown Los Angeles: $330–$420/month — higher electricity and internet costs due to dense housing.
• Hollywood / West Hollywood: $300–$380/month — slightly elevated water and internet rates.
• Beverly Hills: $350–$440/month — high-end usage and top-tier service plans.
• Santa Monica: $320–$400/month — premium water and recycling costs.
• San Fernando Valley: $240–$310/month — lower water and gas bills.
• South Los Angeles: $210–$280/month — among the most affordable boroughs.
• Echo Park / Silver Lake: $260–$330/month — moderate rates with average consumption.
Tips to Reduce Utilities Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Managing energy and water wisely can reduce monthly bills without compromising comfort.
• Use smart thermostats: Save 10–15% on electricity by auto-adjusting cooling and heating.
• Install LED bulbs: Reduce lighting costs by up to 80%.
• Wash clothes in cold water: Cuts both water and gas bills.
• Unplug idle electronics: Standby devices account for 5–10% of energy usage.
• Join rebate programs: LADWP offers credits for energy-efficient upgrades.
• Compare internet providers: Promotions and bundles can save $20–$40 monthly.
Summary of Utilities Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
| Borough / Neighborhood | Average Monthly Cost | Electricity | Water & Gas | Internet | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown LA | $330–$420 | High | Moderate | High | Dense housing, high AC usage |
| Hollywood / West Hollywood | $300–$380 | Moderate | Moderate | High | Entertainment district |
| Beverly Hills | $350–$440 | High | High | High | Luxury utilities |
| Santa Monica | $320–$400 | Moderate | High | Moderate | Coastal rates |
| San Fernando Valley | $240–$310 | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Suburban housing |
| South Los Angeles | $210–$280 | Low | Low | Moderate | Affordable utilities |
| Echo Park / Silver Lake | $260–$330 | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Balanced consumption |
FAQ: Utilities Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. What is the average monthly utility bill in Los Angeles?
The average monthly utility bill ranges from $210 to $420, depending on apartment size and energy use.
Q2. How much does electricity cost in Los Angeles?
Electricity costs average $0.24–$0.30 per kWh, with typical monthly bills around $90–$130.
Q3. Who provides water and power in Los Angeles?
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) supplies both water and electricity citywide.
Q4. Are utilities more expensive in Beverly Hills?
Yes, Beverly Hills has some of the highest utility costs due to luxury home usage and premium service providers.
Q5. How much is internet per month in Los Angeles?
Internet costs range from $60 to $120 monthly, depending on provider and speed.
Q6. Do rental apartments include utilities in Los Angeles?
Some rentals include water or trash in rent, but electricity and internet are usually billed separately.
Q7. How can I lower my Los Angeles utility bills?
Use smart thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, and water-saving fixtures to reduce costs and qualify for rebates.