(Nexstar) – Shoppers are increasingly anxious about rising prices for beef and other grocery items, but new forecasts indicate that heating expenses for many Americans will also spike this winter.
The National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA) reports that, on average, for every degree the temperature drops, heating costs could increase by 7.6%. Yet, the extent of this rise varies by fuel type.
Electricity is expected to see the largest jump at 10.2%. As a result, the average cost of heating during the 2024-2025 winter season could climb from $1,093 to $1,205 for 2025-2026.
Predictions for cost increases differ by region. The West might experience an high rise of 18%, the South 21.4%, and the Midwest 19.7%. In comparison, the Northeast is expected to see a more modest increase of 7.2%.
| Expenses | Natural gas | Electricity | Heating oil | Propane | All fuels |
| 2025-2026 | $693 | $1,205 | $1,455 | $1,250 | $976 |
| 2024-2025 | $639 | $1,093 | $1,515 | $1,316 | $907 |
| Difference in $ | $54 | $112 | -$60 | -$66 | $69 |
| % difference | 8.4% | 10.2% | -4% | -5% | 7.6% |
Nida commented on the situation, stating, “While these increases may seem significant to wealthier families, for those living near the poverty line, they can be catastrophic. Low-income families are already having a tough time with high prices, and now they’ll have to decide between paying for heating or other necessities like food and medicine.”
Electricity costs have become a persistent issue, with a recent consumer price index report revealing that they’re rising at double the inflation rate.
NEADA attributes these rising costs to various factors, including ongoing expenses for maintaining and upgrading the energy grid, increasing natural gas prices—essential for generating electricity—and growing demand from data centers.
For those relying on natural gas for heating, costs are also expected to go up, climbing from $639 to $693 due to higher wholesale prices and demand. Meanwhile, those using heating oil or propane may actually see a decrease, with projected drops of 4% and 5%, respectively.
How to Save on Heating Costs
There are ways to help lower heating bills. Wolfe suggests checking and adjusting heating and cooling systems before the colder months, as well as using caulking or sealants to eliminate any leaks in the house.
The Department of Energy recommends treating the home as an interconnected system. This approach includes insulation, air sealing, efficient appliances, and other factors to lower costs while enhancing comfort. Local utilities and government programs might offer grants to assist with improving energy efficiency.
In simpler terms, one straightforward way to save money is to lower the thermostat by 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for eight hours a day, which could effectively decrease bills by about 10%.
