- Get upto a $300 Reward Card
- $10 off Fiber for 12 Months
- Reliable Fiber Speeds up to 5 Gbps
- Plans starting at $34/month
Top 2 Electric Providers in San Francisco
Electricity in San Francisco is a bit of a team effort; while Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) delivers the power, most residents are automatically enrolled in CleanPowerSF, which provides cleaner, renewable energy. You can set up your service through the PG&E website or by calling at least five business days before you move to ensure the lights are on when you arrive.
Top 9 Natural Gas Providers in San Francisco
Natural gas is also provided by PG&E, so we suggest bundling this setup with your electric account to save time and keep your billing in one place. If the gas has been turned off at your new home, be sure to schedule a “start service” appointment online so a technician can safely check your appliances and pilot lights.
- $1.42 /THM
- $1.49 /THM
- $0.899 /THM
- $1.99/day
- $40.00/month
- $0.799 /THM
- $0.894 /THM
- $1.49/day
Top 8 Internet Providers in San Francisco
Internet options are plentiful, with national providers like Xfinity and AT&T Fiber competing alongside local favorites like Sonic and Monkeybrains that often offer great deals on high-speed fiber. We suggest checking availability for your specific address about two weeks in advance to secure the best “new neighbor” promotions and an installation date that works for your schedule.
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 97.19%
- $34.00/mo
- Our Recommended Provider
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 97.43%
- $40.00/mo
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 82.62%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $50.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 4.64%
- $70.00/mo
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- Limited%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
Water & Sewage Providers in San Francisco
Water and sewer services are managed by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), which delivers some of the best-tasting tap water in the country from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. To open your account, you can use their online portal or calling, and we recommend doing this at least three days before your move to avoid any service interruptions.
Top 9 Trash and Recycling Providers in San Francisco
Trash, recycling, and composting are handled exclusively by Recology San Francisco, a company that helps the city lead the way in its “Zero Waste” mission. You will need to set up your three-bin system (black, blue, and green) by visiting their website or calling, and don’t forget to ask about their free annual bulky item collection to help you get rid of any leftover moving debris.
Utilities Summary for San Francisco, CA
| Electric Companies: | 2 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 9 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 9 |
| Municipal Electricity: | Yes |
Connect your Home to San Francisco Utilities
Moving to San Francisco means stepping into a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern innovation. With its iconic cable cars, diverse neighborhoods, and tech-forward culture, the City by the Bay offers a one-of-a-kind lifestyle. Understanding the local utility services will help make your transition smoother, especially since some providers also offer rebates, green energy options, and financial assistance programs to make city living more manageable.
Electricity in San Francisco
San Francisco’s electricity is primarily provided by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), one of the largest combined natural gas and electric utilities in the U.S. PG&E serves nearly all residential customers in the city and is known for its investments in renewable energy, grid modernization, and safety.
Key facts about PG&E’s electric service
- Service Type: Regulated, no retail competition for electricity in SF
- Green Energy: PG&E’s power mix includes over 40% renewable sources
- Billing: Tiered pricing and Time-of-Use plans available
Energy Efficiency Rebates
PG&E offers extensive energy-saving programs and rebates through its Savings Programs, including:
- Rebates on smart thermostats, insulation, and efficient appliances
- Home Energy Checkups
- Demand Response programs to lower usage during peak times
PG&E participates in Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), so some San Francisco residents are automatically enrolled in CleanPowerSF, a greener alternative that sources more electricity from renewable resources while still using PG&E infrastructure.
Natural Gas in San Francisco
PG&E also supplies natural gas to most homes in San Francisco. However, California has a deregulated natural gas market, allowing residents to choose third-party gas suppliers through Core Gas Aggregation Service (CGAS). While PG&E remains the default provider, switching is possible depending on availability and cost preferences.
Alternative suppliers (availability may vary)
- Vista Energy
- Commercial Energy
- Realgy Energy Services
Tips for Choosing a Supplier
- Compare rates carefully; savings may vary based on usage.
- Read contract terms, especially around cancellation fees.
Rebates and Efficiency
PG&E offers rebates for:
- High-efficiency gas furnaces and water heaters
- Weatherization upgrades
- Appliance recycling programs
Water and Sewer Services
Water and sewer services in San Francisco are managed by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). The city’s water is sourced from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in the Sierra Nevada, renowned for its quality and cleanliness.
Key SFPUC Features
- Service Area: Entire city of San Francisco
- Water Quality: Excellent, with rigorous testing
- Billing: Bimonthly for most residential customers
Conservation Programs
- Free water-saving kits (showerheads, aerators)
- Rebates for high-efficiency toilets and clothes washers
- Graywater system rebates for laundry-to-landscape setups
Trash, Recycling, and Compost
San Francisco’s waste management is one of the most advanced in the country, with an ambitious goal of zero waste.
Service Provider: Recology San Francisco
Services Included
- Weekly trash, recycling, and compost pickup
- Free bulky item pickup (twice per year)
- Special services for electronics, hazardous waste, and construction debris
Interesting Programs
- Mandatory composting and recycling since 2009
- Discounts for low-income households and seniors
- Recology’s “Artist in Residence” program uses landfill materials to create art
Best Internet Providers in San Francisco
San Francisco is well-served by a range of internet providers, from cable to fiber to 5G wireless. The best provider for your household depends on your speed needs, budget, and address-specific availability.
Top Internet Providers:
- Xfinity
- Cable internet with speeds up to 2 Gbps
- Widely available throughout the city, over 97% availability
- Bundles with TV and mobile options
- AT&T Fiber
- Fiber-optic internet with speeds up to 5 Gbps
- Expanding footprint in San Francisco, now covering around 97% of the city
- Great for streamers and remote workers
- Starry Internet
- Fixed wireless with fast, symmetrical speeds
- Only available in select buildings
Conservation and Green Energy Initiatives
San Francisco is a national leader in sustainability and climate policy. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or take advantage of eco-friendly programs, the city offers numerous opportunities.
Green Programs and Options:
- CleanPowerSF (default CCA program): Offers two tiers, Green (50% renewable) and SuperGreen (100% renewable)
- Solar Incentives: Through GoSolarSF, the city provides rebates for installing solar panels
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Support: Rebates for EV chargers and extensive public charging networks
- Energy audits and home weatherization offered through PG&E and local nonprofits
Homeowner Tips:
- Combine solar with battery storage for resilience during outages
- Enroll in demand response programs to earn credits for conserving power during peak hours
Financial Assistance Programs for Utilities in San Francisco
If you’re concerned about managing utility bills, San Francisco and the state of California offer several financial assistance programs for eligible households.
Electric & Gas Assistance (PG&E):
- CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy): 20–35% off your utility bill
- FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance): Discount for families with slightly higher incomes
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): One-time help with bills or weatherization
Water Assistance (SFPUC):
- Community Assistance Program (CAP): 15% discount on water/sewer bills for income-qualified residents
- Emergency Customer Assistance Program: Available for those experiencing financial hardship
Trash Assistance (Recology):
- Discounted rates for seniors and low-income households upon request
- Flexible payment plans
How to Apply:
- Visit each provider’s website for online application portals
- Have income documentation and a recent bill ready
- Call 311 for general help with accessing city services
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.
San Francisco Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in San Francisco
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Google Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CleanPowerSF and why is it on my bill?
In San Francisco, we have a “Community Choice Aggregation” program. While PG&E delivers your electricity, CleanPowerSF is the default provider that sources the energy from renewable places like wind and solar. You don’t have to do a thing to sign up, it’s automatic, and it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint without lifting a finger!
How far in advance should I schedule my PG&E transfer?
We recommend giving PG&E at least five business days of lead time. You can easily do this online or over the phone. If you’re moving into an older Victorian, it’s also a smart move to ask for a free gas safety check when you start your service.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Safety is our top priority! If you smell a “rotten egg” odor, stop what you are doing, leave the building immediately, and do not use any electronic devices. Once you are safely away, call 911 and PG&E at (800) 743-5000.
Is San Francisco's tap water really that good?
It sure is! Most of our water comes from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in the Sierra Nevada, and it’s some of the highest-quality tap water in the country. Because we live in a drought-prone state, we always encourage residents to be water-wise.
Can I get free water-saving tools for my new home?
Absolutely. The SFPUC is a great neighbor and offers free “Water-Wise Kits” that include high-efficiency showerheads and faucet aerators. You can even request a free Home Water Audit to help you identify leaks and save money on your monthly bill.
How do I set up my water account?
You can open your account online via the SFPUC website. If you are renting, your landlord usually handles the water bill, but it is always a good idea to confirm who is responsible for the “Clean Water” and “Sewer” charges before you sign your lease.
Why do I have three different trash bins?
San Francisco is on a mission to reach “Zero Waste,” which means we take our sorting seriously! Your black bin is for landfill, blue is for recycling, and green is for compost (food scraps and yard waste). Composting is actually mandatory here, so we recommend keeping a small bin on your kitchen counter to make it easy.
What should I do with all my moving boxes?
Welcome to the neighborhood! Once you’ve unpacked, you can break down your cardboard boxes and place them in (or next to) your blue recycling bin. If you have a mountain of boxes, you can schedule a Bulky Item Recycling pickup with Recology. Every residential account gets two free pickups per year!
Who are the best internet providers in the city?
While big names like Xfinity and AT&T Fiber are everywhere, San Francisco has some fantastic local options. We often recommend checking out Sonic or Monkeybrains, they are local companies that offer blazing-fast speeds and are known for great customer service.
How soon should I book my installation?
Since so many people are moving in and out of the city, technicians can get booked up fast. We suggest scheduling your installation at least two weeks before your move-in date to ensure you aren’t stuck using your phone’s hotspot on your first night in the new place.
Are there ways to lower my utility bills?
Definitely. If you are looking to save, check if you qualify for the CARE or FERA programs through PG&E, which can provide a discount of 18% to 35% on your monthly energy bill. For water, the SFPUC offers a Customer Assistance Program (CAP) for low-income households to help keep those essential services affordable.