Electricity, natural gas, water, trash collection, and other household services can consume a surprisingly large share of a monthly budget. The newest federal spending figures show just how much Americans are paying for these essentials, and the total may be higher than many households expect. Data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics on October 29, 2026, shows that the average American consumer unit spent $4,931 on utilities, fuels, and public services during 2025.
That’s approximately $411 per month.
