Electric Heat Cost
How much does electric heating cost per month in the US? Here is the full breakdown.
Based on 10 hrs/day heating season, US average rate $0.13/kWh (EIA 2026). Costs vary widely by state. A heat pump can reduce these figures by 60–70%. Use the calculator below for your specific home.
Electric resistance heating costs an average of $150–$350 per month for a US home, depending on home size, local electricity rate, and daily usage hours.
Calculate Your Electric Heating Cost
Input Type
Average Monthly Electric Heating Cost by Home Size (US 2026)
| Home Size | Wattage Needed | Cost/Month ($0.13/kWh) | Cost/Month ($0.20/kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / Small (400 sq ft) | 2,000W | ~$62/mo | ~$96/mo |
| Small Home (800 sq ft) | 4,000W | ~$125/mo | ~$192/mo |
| Medium Home (1,500 sq ft) | 7,500W | ~$234/mo | ~$360/mo |
| Large Home (2,500 sq ft) | 12,000W | ~$374/mo | ~$576/mo |
Assumes 10 hrs/day heating, 30 days/month. Actual usage varies.
What Affects Your Electric Heating Cost?
Your electricity rate is the biggest factor. US rates range from $0.08/kWh in Louisiana to $0.35/kWh in Hawaii. A home paying $0.20/kWh spends 54% more on heating than one at $0.13/kWh. See our heating cost by state guide to find where your state ranks.
Home insulation, thermostat settings, and local climate also drive costs significantly. A poorly insulated home can cost 30–40% more to heat than a well-sealed equivalent. Upgrading to a heat pump is the single biggest lever available to most homeowners — our see heat pump monthly costs tool shows the direct savings comparison.