monthly cost of utilities
Census figures list the average cost of utilities, fuels and public services for running a home at $304 per month. This includes some form of gas, electric or fuel oil energy consumption, water and telephone services. Here, too, there are many factors that can alter utility costs. For example, the average water consumption for a family of four at 100 gallons per day can cost as low as $34 per month in Phoenix and as high a $65 per month in Boston.