Idahoans have cheapest average utility bill in U.S.

COEUR d’ALENE — Idaho has the lowest average monthly utility rates in the nation, according to a study by Move.org.

The relocation industry organization found that residents of the Gem State pay an average of $343.71 per month for their electricity, natural gas, internet, cable, and water. Second-best is Idaho’s neighbor to the south, Utah, which came in at an average of $350.17 per month.

Idaho’s top ranking came in large part due to its third-cheapest, average natural gas bill of $52.89 per month, and its sixth-cheapest, average electric bill of $93.82 per month. Idaho internet expenses were 12th-cheapest in the nation at $57 per month, according to the study.

Avista spokesman Casey Fielder said the utility company intentionally seeks out ways to save its customers money, such as by utilizing multiple means of energy production.

Nearly half of Avista’s electricity production comes from low-cost hydro, she said. Savings from a nationwide drop in wholesale natural gas prices have been passed on dollar for dollar, Fielder said. She also said maintenance and upgrades to its massive infrastructure are how the company tries to keep costs low.

The Northwest had the lowest costs per region, led by Idaho and rounded out by Montana $359.03, Washington $369.18, Oregon $381.30, and Wyoming $392.91.

The New England states had the highest costs per region, led by Rhode Island’s $521.98. At $730.86 per month, Hawaii came in dead last nationwide. The island state outpaced America’s second-priciest state, Alaska at $527.96, by more than 38 percent.

Nationally, utilities cost an average of $422.08 per month, said the study. That number includes average monthly expenses of $125.22 for electricity, $100.53 for natural gas, $62.33 for 60 Mbps internet service, $100 for cable, and $40 for water.

The study calculated each state’s electricity and natural gas utility expenses by multiplying average national consumption rates times the average cost for electricity and natural gas in the respective states.

National averages were used for cable and water estimates due to a lack of rates by state. Internet bills were calculated by assuming service of 60 Mbps, unlimited data, and an Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, said the study.

To see the full study, go to bit.ly/2z9Ujry.