Here’s who could see the biggest jump in prices
ATLANTA — This week’s blast of cold air is an early signal that winter is approaching, and energy experts warn that home heating costs are likely to rise for many households this season.
“Everyone is saying prices are going up,” said Mark Wolfe, executive director of the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA). “Nobody is saying prices are coming down.”
According to NEADA, rising electricity and natural gas prices will make heating homes more expensive for most families. The organization projects average home heating costs will increase 7.6%, climbing from $907 last winter to about $976 this season.
Households using electric heat are expected to see the largest increase — up 10.2%, to an average of $1,205. For those heating with natural gas, costs are projected to rise from $639 to $693.
What’s driving higher costs?
NEADA, which represents state directors of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), says electricity and natural gas prices have been increasing at more than twice the rate of inflation.
Key factors include:
Higher natural gas prices
Growing electricity demand from data centers
Ongoing power grid upgrades and maintenance
“Electric utilities are rebuilding the grid, and that’s pushing up prices,” Wolfe said. “Data centers are also placing new demands on the grid, which is driving up costs even more.”
How many Americans are affected?
How many Americans are affected?
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) 2025–26 Winter Fuels Outlook:
46% of U.S. households heat with natural gas
43% rely on electric heating
The EIA offers a slightly more moderate forecast than NEADA, projecting the average electricity bill will rise about 4% between November and March, reaching a national average of roughly $1,130.
Who may pay less this winter?
Households that heat with fuels other than electricity or natural gas may see some relief.
The EIA expects heating oil and propane prices to decline by just under 10%, while NEADA predicts savings closer to 5%.
How to keep heating costs under control
How to keep heating costs under control
Wolfe recommends taking small, consistent steps to manage energy use before winter peaks.
“Every one degree you turn your thermostat down can save about 2% on your bill,” he said. “Turn it down gradually — about one degree a week — so you stay comfortable.”
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