- 5 Year Price Lock
- Free WiFi Equipment for 24 months
- Free Xfinity Mobile Line
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps
- Plans starting at $30/month
Top 2 Electric Providers in Baltimore
Electricity is provided by Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), and you should schedule your service to begin at least three days before your move-in date via their online portal or by calling. While BGE is the default utility, Maryland allows you to choose a competitive electricity supplier, so be sure to compare rates on the “Maryland Electric Choice” website if you want to shop for different pricing structures.
Top 2 Natural Gas Providers in Baltimore
Natural Gas service in Baltimore is also exclusively delivered by BGE, requiring a separate service request if your home uses gas for heating or cooking. Just like with electricity, you can choose a third-party gas supplier, but BGE will remain your point of contact for billing, maintenance, and any gas-related emergencies.
Top 8 Internet Providers in Baltimore
Internet service in Baltimore is dominated by Xfinity and Verizon Fios, with availability varying significantly by neighborhood. To ensure you have service on move-in day, check your specific address on both providers’ websites at least two weeks in advance to schedule a technician or request a self-install kit.
- 2.3 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 63.64%
- $49.99/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 98.04%
- $40.00/mo
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 88.44%
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 88.48%
- $47.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 88.52%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $50.00/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in Baltimore
Water and Sewer services are managed by the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) and are technically tied to the property title rather than an individual’s credit. If you are buying a home, the account transfer is typically handled by your title company at closing; if you are renting, you should confirm with your landlord whether you need to pay the city directly through the Customer Payment Portal.
Top 43 Trash and Recycling Providers in Baltimore
Trash and Recycling collection is a city-provided utility managed by the DPW and is funded through your annual property taxes. There is no need to “set up” an account or pay a monthly bill; you simply need to verify your specific pickup days by entering your new address into the city’s DPW website.
Utilities Summary for Baltimore, MD
| Electric Companies: | 2 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 2 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 43 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Connect Your Home To Utility Services in Baltimore
Baltimore is more than just the Inner Harbor, it’s a city with rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural life. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Federal Hill, the arts scene in Station North, or the foodie delights of Hampden, you’ll find a genuine sense of community here. As you plan your big move, getting your utilities in order is a key early step to feeling at home.
Electricity: BGE, Deregulation, & Tips
Baltimore’s electricity is delivered by Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), a regulated utility under parent company Exelon. Although BGE transmits and distributes electricity, Maryland has allowed residents to choose electricity suppliers since 1999 under the Electric Customer Choice and Competition Act .
Deregulation & Shopping
- Since deregulation, retailer electric providers (REPs) compete to sell you electricity, while BGE remains the default delivery provider. If you don’t shop, you’ll pay BGE’s “Standard Offer Service” or “Provider of Last Resort” rates.
- Many Maryland households (~20%) use an alternate supplier, often for lower rates or renewable energy plans.
- A recent law that took effect January 1, 2025 places authority over marketing claims by these suppliers to protect consumers.
Picking a Supplier
- Compare rates and contract types: fixed-term vs variable, watch for early exit fees.
- Look for green energy plans: some REPs offer 100% renewable or carbon-offset options.
- Watch for scams: as competition grew, so did questionable sales tactics. Stick with PSC-licensed suppliers and read reviews carefully.
The Impact of Maryland Senate Bill 1 on Energy Choice
It’s been a real rollercoaster for Marylanders trying to choose their energy suppliers this year! Those new laws that kicked in January 2025 were meant to protect consumers, but they’ve had some… unintended consequences for energy choice. Before 2025, Maryland had nearly 300 competitive energy offers from different suppliers. But as of January? Zero. Yep, you read that right, Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) basically wiped out the competitive market overnight by imposing such strict rules that suppliers couldn’t (or wouldn’t) participate.
SB 1 was sold as a shield against shady marketing (like those door-to-door scammers targeting seniors). But instead, it trapped everyone with their local utility, no shopping, no comparing rates, no locking in longer-term fixed plans. With choice gone, utilities like BGE (+$18 a month) and PEPCO (+$11-$12 a month) are hiking rates. Why? Maryland now imports most of its power (since local plants closed), and wholesale prices spiked. Deregulation was supposed to lower costs, but now Maryland is seeing the opposite.
Another new law requires suppliers to source 51% of renewable credits locally to call plans “green” or “100% renewable.” Sounds good, right? Well, energy companies sued, saying it’s too restrictive and violates free speech (yep, First Amendment arguments!). So if you wanted a wind/solar plan from a company like Green Mountain Energy? Those options have almost entirely vanished, for now.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next?
There’s a flicker of hope! The state’s pushing the Abundant, Affordable Clean Energy (AACE) Act to boost local solar/wind and protect ratepayers. Plus, advocates are begging lawmakers to fix SB 1 and bring back competition. Right now, energy choice in Maryland feels like a paused game, options are frozen, bills are up, and everyone’s waiting to see if the state will hit “restart” on competition.
Natural Gas: BGE & Choice Programs
Just like electricity, BGE also delivers natural gas to most of Baltimore. Since it’s deregulated, you can purchase your gas commodity from a retail natural gas provider (RNGP), or stay on BGE’s default service.
Things to Know
- In some areas near the edge of the city, gas choice may not be available.
- Competitive pricing or green energy (biogas) plans are often accessible.
- BGE still manages delivery, leaks, safety, and billing if you stick with them.
Picking a Provider
- Compare fixed-price vs index plans: index tracks commodity markets, fixed locks it in.
- Check green options: choose suppliers that offer biogas or carbon neutral products.
- Finalize setup: switching usually means a new contract; don’t let service lapse.
Water & Sewer: Baltimore City Department of Public Works
The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) handles all things water, sewer, and stormwater. Every bill covers consumption, sewer usage, and stormwater maintenance.
Things to Know
- Tiered rates mean conservation helps lower bills.
- DPW offers rebates on toilet and appliance upgrades, plus leak detection kits to support water conservation.
- Winter billing “budget plan” smooths seasonal spikes, great for newcomers!
Trash & Recycling: Baltimore DPW Services
Baltimore’s DPW provides weekly curbside trash, recycling, and yard waste collection. You’ll receive three separate bins (or one container, depending on your neighborhood).
Things to Know
- Bulk collection: Curbside pickup of furniture/appliances is free on scheduled days.
- Hazardous waste drop-off: Battery, electronics, and paint can be dropped off at DPW facilities.
- Compost Pilot Programs: Certain neighborhoods get a trial curbside food scraps program. Watch DPW notices for updates!
Internet: Best Providers in Baltimore
Getting reliable internet is key! Here are the top options:
- Xfinity: most available provider in Baltimore. Cable connection with speeds up to 2 Gbps and over 98% availability.
- Verizon Home Internet: DSL, fiber, and 5G Home connections with speeds over 2 Gbps in parts of the city with Fios service. Plans are price-locked and bundle-friendly.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Wireless 5G Home connection with plans starting $50/mo with no data caps.
- Project Waves: A community initiative offering free service for qualifying households.
Choosing a Provider
- For blazing speeds (gaming, working from home), Xfinity or Verizon Fios are the top picks.
- For consistent mid-range and easy setup, T‑Mobile 5G is a solid choice.
- If bundles matter, Verizon and Xfinity offer combo deals and T-Mobile allows you to bundle with mobile phone service.
- For lifelong learning or tight budgets, check Project Waves eligibility!
Conservation & Green Energy Options
Baltimoreers have great green choices for utilities:
- BGE Green Grants & Programs: Grants up to $10K for local environmental groups; community nest protection and tree planting.
- Smart meter use: BGE replaced analog meters; you can log usage online to identify savings .
- Green supplier plans: Third-party electricity/gas providers offer clean energy or carbon offsets.
- Water rebate programs: DPW supports low-flow appliances and leak detection to save water and money.
- Compost initiatives: Yard and food waste are piloted wide pick-ups in select zones.
Quick Checklist Before Moving In
- Activate BGE electric (stay or shop supplier)
- Set up gas service (choose supplier or BGE)
- Register for water/sewer and explore conservation rebates
- Arrange trash, recycling, yard-waste service
- Select and schedule internet service (wired, fiber, 5G)
- Explore green energy and conservation support for lowered bills
Energy Rebates and Discounts Available to Residents of Baltimore
The BG&E Smart Energy program offers rebates and discounts on select high-efficiency and ENERGY STAR models. Save upto $100 on Smart Thermostats, $1600 on Heat Pump Water Heaters, $50 on Dehumidifers and up to $3000 on heating and cooling systems. Rebates are also available for air sealing products, insulation, ENERGY STAR Windows and Doors, and duct sealing. Customers can also save on energy-efficient products like smart thermostats, LED lighting, electric vehicle chargers, water fixtures, and more in the BG&E Marketplace.
The Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development also offers low-income households free services to help reduce energy expenses. Services include energy audits, safety testing, repairs of HVAC systems, and installation of energy saving measures such as insulation, air sealing caulk, low flow showerheads, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and ENERGY STAR appliance replacement. Apply online to see if you qualify.
Energy and Utility Assistance in Baltimore, MD
The Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) offers utility bill assistance to help make the energy costs of low-income households more affordable. OHEP offers several programs which can provide financial assistance. The Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) offers assistance with heating bills, the Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) provides help with electric bills and the Arrearage Retirement Assisteance program can assist with large and past due electric and gas bills. Additonally the Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) helps protect families from utility turn-offs during the cold, heating season.
Water billing assistance is available to Balitmore residents from the Baltimore City Department of Public Works. Several programs are available including the BH2O Billing Assistance Program, Low-Income Water Bill Assistance Program, Monthly Water Bill Payment Plan Program, and Medical Exemption Program. Additional programs are available to help with repairs or reducing your fees or bills.
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.
Baltimore Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Baltimore
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Fios | Fiber | 2.3 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
Baltimore Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
Baltimore's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 100 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 60 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice do I need to give to start utility service?
For BGE (Gas/Electric), you should provide at least 3 business days’ notice, while internet providers typically require 1–2 weeks to schedule a technician or mail a self-install kit.
What documents do I need to set up my accounts?
Most providers require a government-issued ID, your Social Security Number (for credit checks), and your new service address; some may also ask for a lease agreement or settlement statement for proof of occupancy.
Do I have to choose a third-party energy supplier?
No, you can stay with BGE for “Standard Offer Service” (SOS), but Maryland’s “Electric Choice” program allows you to shop for competitive rates or 100% renewable energy plans from licensed suppliers.
What is the "Standard Offer Service" (SOS)?
The SOS is the default price BGE charges for the electricity or gas itself; if you don’t choose a third-party supplier, BGE buys the energy for you and passes the cost through without a markup.
How do I report a power outage or gas leak?
Report power outages at 1-877-778-2222 and immediately report any smell of gas or suspected gas leaks to BGE at 1-877-778-7798.
Why is my water bill still in the previous owner’s name?
Water accounts are tied to the property deed and usually transfer automatically during the recordation process, but this can take several weeks; check with the DPW if it hasn’t updated after your first month.
Can I put the water bill in my name if I am renting?
In Baltimore City, water bills are issued to the property owner, so tenants generally cannot put the account in their name unless the landlord specifically requests a “tenant duplicate” bill through the DPW.
Is there assistance for high water bills?
The city offers the Water4All program, which provides financial assistance and credits to low-to-moderate-income residents based on a percentage of their annual household income.
How do I schedule a bulk trash pickup?
Baltimore City residents can schedule one free bulk pickup per month (up to three items) by calling 311 or using the Baltimore 311 app at least three days in advance.
What are the rules for recycling bins?
You can use any container for recycling as long as it is clearly marked, but you must not use plastic bags; items should be placed loose in the bin to avoid being rejected by collection crews.
How do I get a city-issued trash can?
The city provides one heavy-duty “Municipal Trash Can” to each household; if your new home is missing one, you can request a replacement or repair through the 311 system.
Which internet providers serve my specific neighborhood?
While Xfinity and Verizon Fios are the primary providers, availability varies by street; you should use an address-lookup tool on their websites to see if fiber-optic (Fios) is available at your exact location.
Are there low-cost internet options for Baltimore families?
Many providers participate in programs like “Internet Essentials” (Comcast) or “Forward” (Verizon) for households that qualify for federal assistance programs like SNAP or Medicaid.