With meteorologists predicting a colder-than-normal winter and inflation still high, the Energy Information Administration is warning people to expect heating bills that are almost one-third more expensive this year.
But which cities will take the hardest hit?
According to a recent study from MoneyGeek, some parts of the country are expected to have higher spikes in cost than others. The study used data from the EIA to estimate the increased cost of natural gas heating this winter.
Among the states expected to spend the most on heat this winter are Oklahoma at $301 a month, Alaska at $289, Georgia at $280, and Maryland at $278. Those are all above the national monthly average price for household gas bills of $257.
Other states among the top spenders include Illinois at $210, New York at $206, Michigan at $184, Ohio at $160, and Minnesota at $154.
Regionally, the report estimates that the Midwest will see the highest price increase of any region, with heating bills expected to rise 33%. The region to see the second highest price hikes is the West jumping 29% this season.
States that will pay the least amount include Hawaii, Florida, and Maine, all expected to pay around $20 a month this winter.
Inflation has touched every industry and commodity across the board, and natural gas is no different. The national average that households pay a month for natural gas is expected to rise by $56 compared to last year.
With the U.S. Census Bureau reporting that almost half of American households rely on natural gas for heating, staying warm this winter is going to be pricey.
When it comes to saving money on natural gas, many turn to alternative methods like space heaters and fireplaces to keep their homes warm. For those who choose either of these routes, the National Fire Protection Association advises caution, with both being the leading causes of U.S. home fires.
The association reports that 81% of home fire deaths are caused by heating equipment like space heaters, while three out of 10 home fires involve fireplaces or chimneys.
There are options for those looking for assistance when it comes to paying their heating bills this winter season. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program offers help for those who qualify.
Besides that, the report shared that keeping your home two to three degrees cooler and wearing heavy clothing can often help reduce costs, as well as opening shades and blinds to sunlight as a form of natural heating.
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