Understanding Utilities in Murray
Myth: Utility costs in Murray are sky-high and unpredictable. Truth: While bills can fluctuate seasonally, here’s what typical utility costs look like in Murray. Most households have monthly charges for electricity, water, trash collection, natural gas, and recycling. The average household spends $180–$250/month on utilities in Murray, though this can vary based on home size, occupancy, and usage habits.
Utility providers in Murray include Rocky Mountain Power for electricity, Murray City Water for water and sewer, Dominion Energy for natural gas, and Murray City Sanitation for trash and recycling. Some neighborhoods may have different providers or additional services like irrigation.
Table: Monthly Utility Estimates
Wondering how much your monthly bills might run? Here’s a quick breakdown for a typical home in Murray:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $80–$120 |
| Water | $40–$60 |
| Natural Gas | $30–$50 |
| Trash & Recycling | $20–$30 |
| Total | $170–$260 |
Estimates reflect a mid-size household in a single-family home. Your actual costs may be higher or lower.
How Weather Impacts Utilities in Murray
Seasonal weather patterns can significantly affect utility costs in Murray, especially for electricity and natural gas. In the hot summer months, many households crank up the AC to beat the heat. Electric bills often spike 30–50% higher in July and August compared to milder spring weather.
Winter brings its own challenges. While Murray’s snowfall is more moderate than some mountain towns, overnight lows often dip below freezing. Natural gas consumption for heating rises, pushing bills higher. The shoulder months of September-October and April-May tend to have the lowest utility costs.
Murray’s semi-arid climate means irrigation needs can also impact summer water bills for those with lawns or gardens. Installing a smart irrigation controller and following the city’s watering guidelines can help manage costs.
How to Save on Utilities in Murray
While some utility costs are unavoidable, there are ways Murray residents can keep bills under control:
- Sign up for Rocky Mountain Power’s Cool Keeper program to get a discount for letting them cycle your AC during peak hours
- Take advantage of state and federal tax credits for installing solar panels
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat to optimize heating and cooling
- Plant shade trees to block summer sun and reduce AC strain
- Replace older appliances and fixtures with ENERGY STAR models
🏆 Tip: Check if Rocky Mountain Power or Dominion Energy offer rebates on high-efficiency furnaces, water heaters, or AC units before upgrading.
FAQs About Utility Costs in Murray
What is the average electric bill in Murray during summer?
For a typical household, summer electric bills often range from $100 to $180/month, depending on AC usage. Bills tend to be highest in July and August.
Do HOAs in Murray cover any utilities?
Most Murray HOAs do not include utilities, but some may cover limited services like trash collection or irrigation for common areas. Check your HOA agreement for specifics.
Is water more expensive in Murray than nearby cities?
Murray’s water rates are comparable to similar-sized Utah cities. According to a 2021 Utah League of Cities and Towns survey, Murray’s average monthly water bill was $37.74, close to the $38.50 median for cities with 20,000-100,000 residents.
Smarter Utility Planning in Murray
While utility costs are a fact of life, Murray residents don’t have to be caught off guard by seasonal spikes or hidden fees. Understanding your typical usage, taking advantage of energy-saving programs and upgrades, and budgeting for monthly variations can all help keep costs manageable.
Of course, utilities are just one piece of the household budget puzzle. Learn more about how much internet and streaming services cost in Murray or uncover hidden costs locals face to get the full financial picture. With a little planning and awareness, you can keep your budget balanced in Murray.