How Much Are Utilities in Arizona? Your Guide to Staying Cool Without Breaking the Bank

Arizona summers are no joke but your utility bills don’t have to be scary. If you’re thinking about buying a home in Mesa, Gilbert, or Queen Creek, it’s smart to factor in monthly utility costs alongside your mortgage payment.

Here’s everything you need to know about what it costs to run the AC, plus the energy-saving features that can make a big difference.

💸 What’s the Average Electric Bill in the Summer?

Let’s get real: most buyers are most concerned about one thing, the AC bill.

During the summer (May through September), electric bills in the East Valley often range between $250 and $400 per month, depending on:

• The size and layout of the home

• Whether it’s single or two-story

• Insulation quality

• HVAC age and efficiency

• How cold you like to keep the house (sorry, 68 degrees isn't cheap)

In the winter, you might see bills drop to $90–$130/month, since heat isn’t needed nearly as often.

🏠 Energy Efficiency 101: What Buyers Should Look For

Not all homes are created equal when it comes to energy usage. Here’s what to check when you’re touring:

🔍 Pro Tip: Ask your Realtor (hey, that’s me!) or inspector about the age of the AC unit and when it was last serviced. Older units can be a hidden budget-buster.

🏘️ Older Homes vs New Construction

Older Homes (pre-2000s)

• Often less efficient unless upgraded

• May have single-pane windows or older insulation

• Can be retrofitted with improvements but it’s a cost to plan for

New Builds (2020s and beyond)

• Built to modern energy codes

• Often include energy-efficient appliances and insulation

• Builders may offer Energy Star certifications or include added insulation packages

If you're shopping new construction in places like Hawes Crossing, Barney Farms, or Soleo, you'll likely see much better efficiency ratings and possibly builder incentives to sweeten the deal.

📦 Other Utilities to Consider

While electricity takes center stage in the summer, don’t forget to factor in:

• Water/Sewer: $60-$90/month, higher in summer if you irrigate grass

• Trash/Recycling: ~$30/month (varies slightly by city)

• Internet: $70-$100/month depending on provider and speed

• Gas (if your home uses it): $30-$60/month, higher in winter

💼 Utility Providers in the East Valley

You don’t get to choose your provider, but it helps to know who serves which areas:

• SRP (Salt River Project) - Gilbert, parts of Mesa and Queen Creek

• APS (Arizona Public Service) - Parts of Mesa and Queen Creek

• City of Mesa Utilities - Covers water, gas, electric for many Mesa homes

• EPCOR  - Some areas of Pinal County (check your builder or HOA)

🛠️ Always check your future home’s provider 

🌵 The Good News? You’ll Adapt and So Will Your Budget

Yes, summer electric bills in Arizona can feel wild at first. But many of my clients are surprised at how manageable they become with a smart home choice and a few energy-saving habits. Plus, there’s no snow shovel or winter furnace bill in sight.

📲 Need Help Finding an Energy-Efficient Home?

I help buyers evaluate utility costs, spot hidden red flags, and decide whether a resale or new build makes the most sense for their lifestyle (and budget).

➡️ Schedule your buyer consult
🎥 Watch our walkthroughs of new homes with top efficiency upgrades on YouTube