Compare Utility Providers in Columbus, IN

Most residential water/sewer accounts in Columbus are billed quarterly (every three months), not monthly. This often leads to “bill shock” for new residents who are used to smaller monthly payments. However, the Department of Public Utilities is currently piloting a transition to monthly billing for some residential accounts.

Note: Your bill includes water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater charges combined.

If you live in a large apartment complex (common in the Short North, Arena District, or Grandview), your building may use a “sub-metering” company like Nationwide Energy Partners (NEP) or American Power & Light (APL). In this scenario, the landlord buys power in bulk and resells it to you. Because the account is in the landlord’s name, you are not eligible to shop for third-party suppliers or use the “Energy Choice” program.

It is not required for safety, but many residents prefer one. Columbus water is softened at the treatment plants to approximately 120 ppm or 7 grains per gallon, which is considered “moderately hard.” Without a softener, you may notice white calcium scaling on glass shower doors, faucets, and coffee makers over time.

For a standard 915-square-foot apartment (approx. 2 bedrooms), the average total utility cost (electric, gas, water, trash) is around $271 per month. This is slightly higher than the national average due to the region’s distinct summer (A/C) and winter (Heating) seasons.

Columbus does not follow a “move it to the next day” rule for every holiday. Instead, your pickup day rotates. If your color is Ruby and your day is Monday, and a holiday occurs, your day shifts to Tuesday. It is best to check the PickUp CBUS app or the color-coded calendar, as the schedule can be confusing during holiday weeks.

• Electric: Yes. AEP Ohio and the Division of Power may require a security deposit for new customers or those without established credit. AEP allows you to waive this if you provide a letter of credit from a previous utility.

• Natural Gas: Columbia Gas may charge a deposit if you cannot demonstrate creditworthiness.

• Water: The City of Columbus Division of Water generally does not charge a deposit for water/sewer service.

It depends on your grid.

• If your bill comes from AEP Ohio: Report it at aepohio.com or call 1-800-672-2231.

• If your bill comes from the City of Columbus (Division of Power): Call 614-645-7627.

Tip: Check the streetlights. If the streetlights are on wooden poles, you are likely in Division of Power territory. If they are on metal poles, you are likely in AEP territory.