“I love my home, but the high summer electric bills were killing my budget,” says Lisa M., a 10-year resident of Lakewood who recently downsized. “I wish I’d known more about the seasonal swings and savings options when I first moved here.” She’s not alone — for many in Lakewood, estimating and managing utility costs is a crucial part of the budget puzzle. Here’s what typical utility costs look like in Lakewood.
In Lakewood, monthly utilities usually include electricity, water, trash, recycling, and in some cases, natural gas. While exact costs vary based on home size, age, and usage patterns, the average household spends $180–$250/month on utilities in Lakewood.
Monthly Utility Cost Estimates in Lakewood
Wondering how much your monthly bills might run? Here’s a quick breakdown for a typical home in Lakewood:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 – $150 |
| Water | $30 – $60 |
| Natural Gas | $30 – $80 |
| Trash & Recycling | $20 – $40 |
| Total | $160 – $330 |
Estimates reflect a mid-size household in a single-family home. Your actual costs may be higher or lower.
Seasonal Weather Impacts on Lakewood Utility Bills
In Lakewood, utility costs can swing significantly from season to season, largely driven by heating and cooling needs. Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Lakewood experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold, snowy winters.
During peak summer months, cooling costs can cause electric bills to spike 30–50% compared to milder spring periods. Many homes rely on air conditioning to stay comfortable when July and August highs regularly top 90°F.
Winter brings its own challenges. While not as frigid as mountain towns, Lakewood still sees stretches of sub-freezing days and heavy snowfall from November through March. Natural gas bills for heating can double or triple compared to autumn shoulder months. And with the sun setting by 5 pm in December, lighting adds to electric costs.
How to Save on Utilities in Lakewood
Looking to keep utility bills in check? Lakewood residents have several options:
- Enroll in off-peak billing programs to get discounts for shifting electric usage to low-demand hours
- Take advantage of solar panel incentives — Lakewood averages 245 sunny days per year
- Install a smart thermostat to automate heating and cooling for maximum efficiency
- Plant shade trees near your home to block summer sun and reduce AC strain
- Upgrade to Energy Star appliances as older models wear out
🏆 Tip: Check if your utility provider offers rebates for energy-efficient AC units. Xcel Energy, which serves much of Lakewood, has rebates up to $500 on qualifying models.
FAQs About Utility Costs in Lakewood
What is the average electric bill in Lakewood during summer?
For a typical single-family home, monthly summer electric bills often run $120-$180. Costs are highest in July and August when afternoon highs average 90°F.
Do HOAs in Lakewood cover any utilities?
In most cases, no. While some Lakewood condo and townhome HOAs cover trash and recycling or water, virtually all homeowners are responsible for their own electric and gas bills.
Is water more expensive in Lakewood than nearby cities?
Lakewood’s water rates are on par with most surrounding communities. The average household pays $30-$60/month, similar to costs in Denver and Arvada.
Plan Smarter for Lakewood Utility Costs
While Lakewood’s mountain views and 300+ days of sunshine are huge draws, it pays to factor utility costs into your budget, especially the spikes driven by summer heat and winter chill. Opting for cost-effective internet and streaming plans and watching for hidden fees can also help keep monthly bills manageable.
By understanding the key drivers behind Lakewood’s utility costs and taking proactive steps to conserve, you can keep more money in your pocket to enjoy all this beautiful city has to offer.