Utility Providers in Pittsburgh, PA

Top 51 Electric Providers in Pittsburgh

See Top Plans in Your Area

Top 27 Natural Gas Providers in Pittsburgh

See Top Plans In Your Area

Top 9 Internet Providers in Pittsburgh

*Not all internet providers and speeds available in all areas.

Solar Providers in Pittsburgh

Water & Sewage Providers in Pittsburgh

Top 9 Trash and Recycling Providers in Pittsburgh

Utilities Summary for Pittsburgh, PA

Electric Companies:	51
Natural Gas Companies:	27
Water & Sewage Providers:	6
Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers:	9
Municipal Electricity:	No

Your Guide to Setting Up Utilities in Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, the City of Bridges, is a historic and vibrant city in western Pennsylvania is known for its beautiful rivers, diverse neighborhoods, and growing tech and healthcare sectors. Whether you’re settling into a cozy home in Squirrel Hill or a trendy apartment in the Strip District, getting your utilities set up is an essential first step in feeling at home. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about electricity, gas, water, trash, internet, and available assistance programs in Pittsburgh, so you can get connected and start enjoying your new city.

Electricity in Pittsburgh: The Grid & The Market

Unlike many other states, Pennsylvania’s electricity market is deregulated. This gives you the power to choose who generates your electricity, but you cannot choose who delivers it.

In Pittsburgh, Duquesne Light Company (DLC) is the mandatory Electric Distribution Company (EDC). They own the poles, the wires, and the meters. Even if you buy your power from a “green energy” supplier, Duquesne Light is the company you call if the power goes out.

How to Start Service (The “Two-Step” Rule)

New residents often make the mistake of trying to sign up with a third-party supplier immediately. This will cause your application to fail. You must establish a “Default Service” account first.

1. Step 1: Establish the Line.Contact Duquesne Light at least 3 days before your move-in date.
   • Online: Start service
   • Phone: 1-888-393-7100
   • Why this matters: This generates your unique Supplier Agreement ID, which you will need if you decide to shop for a lower rate later.
2. Step 2: Shop for a Supplier (Optional).Once your account is active, you can compare rates. If you do nothing, you will remain on the Duquesne Light “Default Rate.”

The 2026 “Price to Compare”

To know if a supplier offer is actually a deal, you must compare it against Duquesne Light’s current default rate (the “Price to Compare” or PTC). If a supplier’s rate is higher than the PTC, you are paying extra.

Current Residential Price to Compare (Rate RS):

Effective Period	Price per kWh
Dec 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026	13.75¢
Dec 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025	10.85¢

Note: As of late 2025, rates have trended upward. Ensure any fixed-rate contract you sign is below the 13.75¢ benchmark to see savings on the generation portion of your bill.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Owners: Time-of-Use Rates

If you own an EV, charging during the day in Pittsburgh can be expensive. Duquesne Light offers a specific Time-of-Use (TOU) program that drastically lowers rates overnight.

• Peak Hours (Most Expensive): 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Weekdays)
• Super Off-Peak (Cheapest): 11:00 PM – 6:00 AM (Every Day)

Switching to this plan can save significant money if you schedule your car charging for the “Super Off-Peak” window.

Grid Reliability & Modernization

Pittsburgh’s grid is undergoing major updates to handle increased demand.

• Downtown Resilience: The new Watson Substation, completed in December 2025, serves the “Golden Triangle” (Downtown), Uptown, and the Hill District. This facility was built specifically to prevent the cascading outages that occasionally affected the city center in previous years.
• Storm Safety: Pittsburgh is prone to heavy storms. Always stay at least 10 feet away from downed lines and report them immediately to DLC at 1-888-393-7000.

Low-Income Assistance: Dollar Energy Fund

If you are struggling with utility costs, the Dollar Energy Fund provides hardship grants to eligible Pittsburgh residents. You generally must pay a “good faith” payment of $150 on your account to qualify.

2025 Monthly Income Guidelines (200% Federal Poverty Level):

• 1 Person Household: Up to $2,608 / month
• 2 Person Household: Up to $3,525 / month
• 4 Person Household: Up to $5,358 / month

To apply, contact Duquesne Light or visit a local screening agency.

Top 5 Electric Suppliers in Pittsburgh, PA

1. Constellation Energy – 4.8 / 5.0 

Best for Overall Reliability and Consumer Trust

Headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy is one of the most stable and well-resourced energy suppliers in the United States, managing a generation fleet that produces enough energy to power 15 million homes. The company is a market leader in carbon-free energy, with over 32,400 megawatts of capacity, 90% of which is non-emitting due to its extensive nuclear generation portfolio. Constellation’s recent financial stability is underscored by a “BBB+” issuer credit rating from S&P Global, indicating a high level of operational security for its long-term contract holders.   

Constellation ranks at the top of the 2026 rankings primarily due to its exceptional performance in transparency and reliability metrics. Unlike many smaller providers, Constellation’s order experience is frequently rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars by Pennsylvania consumers. The company offers a unique 90-day satisfaction guarantee on most residential plans, allowing customers to terminate their contract without an early termination fee if they are unhappy within the first three months. Their plans generally feature zero monthly recurring charges, which contributes to a high score for fair and simple contract terms.   

What people in Pittsburgh are saying: On local community forums like Reddit, Pittsburgh residents reflect a high level of respect for Constellation’s professional approach and “no-hassle” billing. Users often highlight the absence of deceptive door-to-door sales tactics, which are common among lower-tier competitors in the region. While some note the rates are not always the absolute lowest, the consensus is that the company is the most reliable for consistent service and honest communication.

Best For: Homeowners who prioritize financial stability, clean energy, and a clean contract with no hidden monthly fees.

2. Public Power – 4.6 / 5.0

Best Value for Low Fixed Rates

Public Power, a subsidiary of the Fortune 500 company Vistra Corp, leverages massive parent-company resources to offer some of the most competitive rates in the Duquesne Light territory for 2026. The company focuses on straightforward, high-volume fixed-rate products that avoid the complexities of tiered usage or “bill credit” gimmicks. By focusing on core electricity supply without extra bells and whistles, they maintain low operational overhead that translates to direct savings for the consumer.   

This provider’s ranking is driven by its dominant Price and Value score and an exceptionally low complaint rate. On regional rating platforms, Public Power is frequently cited as one of the best-performing suppliers for billing and account management. The company holds an A+ rating from the BBB and has reported zero complaints in several recent audit periods. Their plans typically feature a $50 early termination fee in Pennsylvania, which is significantly lower than the $150–$250 fees seen with many national competitors.   

What people in Pittsburgh are saying: Sentiment among Pittsburgh switchers on Reddit is generally positive, with many users noting that Public Power’s rates are “exactly as advertised” with no hidden surcharges. While some reviewers mention that customer service callbacks can be slow, the majority agree that the low fixed rates provide the best immediate relief from high utility default prices. Consumers often advise others to set a calendar reminder for the end of the term to avoid rolling into higher variable rates.   

Best For: Budget-conscious residents who want a simple, competitive fixed rate from a well-capitalized national provider.

3. Energy Harbor – 4.5 / 5.0

Best for Consistent Carbon-Free Options

Energy Harbor is a major retail energy provider focused on carbon-free generation to meet the environmental demands of the PJM grid. Recently acquired by Vistra, the company maintains one of the largest fleets of reliable generating resources in the region. Their “Safe Harbor” plans are highly visible in Pittsburgh for their price consistency and long-term availability, often offering fixed rates for up to 48 months.   

Energy Harbor’s high ranking is supported by its strong plan breadth and independent trust signals. They offer a wide variety of terms, including 9-month, 12-month, and 24-month fixed-rate plans, almost all of which feature zero monthly recurring charges. The company is BBB Accredited and maintains an A+ rating. They are particularly effective at serving large community aggregation programs, which allows them to offer bulk-negotiated pricing to broad segments of the Pittsburgh population.

What people in Pittsburgh are saying: In the Pittsburgh area, customer sentiment is generally favorable toward Energy Harbor’s “no-gimmick” approach and seamless online enrollment. Local Reddit users often contrast Energy Harbor’s reliability with “scammy” teaser-rate providers, though some have noted that switches can take up to two billing cycles to appear on a Duquesne Light bill. Overall, the company is praised for its consistent communication regarding account updates and plan expirations.

Best For: Environmentally conscious consumers looking for stable, long-term fixed rates with no monthly administrative fees.

4. Frontier Utilities – 4.1 / 5.0

Best for Performance Guarantees and Plan Flexibility

Founded in 2008 and based in Houston, Frontier Utilities has earned a reputation for being a flexible and consumer-oriented supplier in the Pennsylvania market. They are a “Gold Tier” award winner in regional evaluation systems, reflecting high scores in customer service and market perception. Frontier is notably one of the few providers to offer a “60-day Happiness Guarantee,” which allows customers to test their service and switch away if they are not satisfied without incurring early termination fees.   

Frontier ranks fourth primarily due to its high scores in plan breadth and customer sentiment. They offer a diverse array of plan types, including specialized options for EV charging and solar buybacks. Their Google review rating of 4.7 stars is among the highest in the industry, supported by over 15,000 customers who praise the responsiveness of their support team. However, the ranking is slightly held back by “bill credit” structures on their lowest-priced plans, which can lead to confusion if usage fluctuates significantly month-to-month.   

What people in Pittsburgh are saying: Sentiment among Pittsburgh residents on Reddit suggests that Frontier is a strong choice for “active” energy shoppers who monitor their usage. Users appreciate the bill credits that reward them for hitting usage milestones, but they caution that small households with low energy needs might end up paying more than the utility rate. The 60-day trial period is frequently cited as a major benefit, providing peace of mind to those who are hesitant to switch away from the utility.   

Best For: High-usage households or EV owners who can benefit from usage-based bill credits and value a trial period.

5. American Power & Gas (AP&G) – 3.5 / 5.0

Best for Initial Monthly Savings

American Power & Gas (AP&G) is a Florida-based company that specializes in offering some of the lowest introductory rates in the Pennsylvania market. They are BBB Accredited with an A+ rating and focus heavily on sourcing energy from renewable resources like wind and solar. AP&G is one of the most visible companies on price comparison sites, often appearing as the “cheapest” option for those looking at initial 1-month or 2-month contract terms.   

Despite the low prices, AP&G occupies the final spot on this list due to significant challenges in reliability and customer sentiment. While the company’s initial rates are excellent, they have a high volume of complaints (125 in the past three years) regarding aggressive telemarketing and “bait and switch” pricing where rates soar once the initial fixed period ends. Their ranking is bolstered primarily by high marks for initial savings and a 25% rebate program for customers who stick with them through the end of a full year.   

What people in Pittsburgh are saying: The consensus on Pittsburgh community forums like Reddit and regional “Consumer Alert” threads is to approach AP&G with extreme caution. Local users have labeled their sales tactics as “exhausting,” advising residents to only use AP&G if they are prepared to monitor their bill every single month and switch as soon as the introductory price begins to climb. Reviewers often mention that while customer service representatives are helpful during enrollment, they can be difficult to reach during the cancellation process.   

Best For: “Power shoppers” who are willing to switch providers every few months to capture the absolute lowest introductory rate.

Why Trust These Rankings?

These rankings are compiled by energy market analysts with over 15 years of experience in the Pennsylvania utility sector. We prioritize data from official regulatory bodies like the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PA PUC) and the S&P Global ratings agency, supplemented by verified customer feedback from community platforms like Reddit, Yelp, and Google.   

Our methodology is designed to be transparent and impartial, with weights specifically assigned to the factors that impact a consumer’s wallet and peace of mind. We do not accept payment from energy suppliers for inclusion in our top five, and all scores are subject to quarterly review to account for price changes and service quality shifts. For a full breakdown of our rating criteria, please visit our Evaluation Methodology Page.

Tips for Choosing a Supplier:

• Look for fixed-rate plans if you want billing stability.
• Consider renewable energy options if sustainability is important to you.
• Check contract length and early termination fees.

Natural Gas: Heating Pittsburgh’s Homes

In Western Pennsylvania, natural gas is the lifeblood of winter survival. Unlike electricity, where the infrastructure is split among many entities, your relationship with natural gas is usually defined by a single, dominant provider depending on your specific street address.

Who is My Provider? (City vs. Suburbs)

If you live within the City of Pittsburgh, your provider is almost certainly Peoples Natural Gas.

• Note for Locals: You may still hear long-time residents refer to “Equitable Gas.” This company was acquired and merged into Peoples Natural Gas years ago. If a landlord tells you to “call Equitable,” you need to call Peoples.
• The Suburban Split: As soon as you cross into the suburbs (like the South Hills or North Hills), the territory becomes a patchwork. While Peoples serves many of these areas, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania serves significant portions of Allegheny County, including parts of Bethel Park, Monroeville, and Sewickley.

Action Item: Before signing a lease, check the exact service availability using the zip code search tools on Peoples-Gas.com or ColumbiaGasPA.com.

How to Start Service

Because gas is a physical safety hazard, the “Start Service” process is more rigorous than internet or cable.

1. Peoples Natural Gas
   • Online: Start Service
   • Phone: 1-800-764-0111
   • Heads Up: Expect a soft credit check. If you have no credit history, you may be asked to pay a security deposit, which is refunded after a year of on-time payments.
2. Columbia Gas of PA
   • Online: Start Service
   • Phone: 1-888-460-4332

Understanding Your Bill: The “Fixed” Cost Reality

New residents are often shocked to receive a gas bill in July when their furnace hasn’t run once. This is due to the Customer Charge.

• The Customer Charge: This is a fixed monthly fee (approx. $25.00+) you pay just to have the meter connected. It covers infrastructure maintenance.
• The Rate Hike Radar (2025-2026): Peoples Natural Gas filed for a rate increase in 2025 to cover infrastructure replacements. Be aware that historical “average bill” estimates found on older forum posts may no longer be accurate.
• Budget Billing: We highly recommend enrolling in “Budget Billing” immediately. This averages your usage over 12 months, preventing you from getting hit with a $300 bill in January and a $25 bill in July.

Choice: Shopping for Gas

Just like electricity, Pennsylvania allows you to shop for the commodity (the gas itself) while your utility (Peoples or Columbia) handles the delivery.

• The Marketplace: Visit PA Gas Switch to compare rates per Mcf (thousand cubic feet).
• The Warning: Be very careful with variable-rate plans. Gas prices can spike during cold snaps. Fixed-rate plans are generally the safer bet for residential tenants. Learn more about the Difference Between Fixed and Variable Rates

Safety Critical: The “Rotten Egg” Protocol

Pittsburgh has some of the oldest utility infrastructure in the country. Gas leaks, while rare, are a serious emergency.

If you smell a “rotten egg” odor:

1. LEAVE the building immediately.
2. DO NOT touch any light switches, use a landline, or ring a doorbell (sparks can ignite gas).
3. Call from a safe distance:
   • Peoples Emergency: 1-800-400-4271
   • Columbia Emergency: 1-888-460-4332
   • Or Dial 911

Top Natural Gas Suppliers in Pittsburgh

• Xoom Energy: Offers variable and fixed-rate plans, with some renewable gas offerings.
• Shipley Energy: Provides fixed-rate plans and budget billing.
• Direct Energy: Natural gas plans often bundled with electricity or smart home tech.
• Spark Energy: Offers competitive rates with straightforward pricing.

Tips for Choosing a Natural Gas Provider

• Compare delivery vs. supply rates to understand your full bill.
• Look for no-fee or short-term options if you’re unsure of your long-term stay.

Water & Sewer: The “One City, Two Systems” Confusion

If you read nothing else on this page, read this section. Pittsburgh has a unique water infrastructure quirk that confuses almost every new resident moving to the southern neighborhoods.

Unlike most cities where one company handles everything, your water service depends entirely on which side of the street you live on.

The “Split Service” Zone (Southern Neighborhoods)

While Pittsburgh Water (formerly PWSA) serves the majority of the city, a large portion of the “Southern Tier” neighborhoods, specifically Brookline, Carrick, Overbrook, and parts of Mount Washington, operates on a split system.

• The Provider Split: You might buy your drinking water from Pennsylvania American Water (PAWC) but pay Pittsburgh Water to take your sewage away.
• The Billing Trap: This results in two separate monthly bills. New residents often set up their PA American Water account, receive their water bill, and think they are done. Months later, they are hit with a massive, past-due sewer bill from Pittsburgh Water.

Neighborhood Watch: If you are moving to Zip Codes 15226, 15210, or 15234, assume you have split service until proven otherwise.

Check Your Provider: Use the Pittsburgh Water website to type in your specific address. If your address falls outside the blue shaded area but you are still in city limits, you likely have PA American Water.

Understanding the Costs: 2025-2027 Rate Outlook

Water is expensive in Pittsburgh due to topography and federally mandated infrastructure upgrades. Both major utilities have filed for significant rate increases affecting 2025 through 2027.

1. Pittsburgh Water (PWSA) Customers:
   • The Bill: You receive one bill that covers Water, Wastewater Conveyance, and Stormwater.
   • 2026 Projections: Due to mandated improvements, the average residential bill is projected to rise to approx. $167.00/month by 2026. This includes the pass-through charges from ALCOSAN (the treatment plant).
2. PA American Water Customers:
   • The Water Bill: You pay PA American for the water coming into your house. They have also requested rate hikes for 2025/2026.
   • The Sewer Bill: You pay Pittsburgh Water (or a local authority) for the water going out of your house. Note: The sewer bill is often higher than the water bill. Do not be alarmed; this covers the expensive treatment process at the ALCOSAN plant.

The Stormwater Fee: “Why am I being billed for rain?”

In 2022, Pittsburgh Water introduced a Stormwater Fee. This is not a tax; it is a utility fee based on the “impervious surface” (concrete, roof, asphalt) on your property.

• The Cost: Most residential homes pay a flat rate based on “Tier 2” size (approx. $10-$12/month).
• The Reason: Pittsburgh has a “combined sewer” system. This fee funds projects to stop raw sewage from overflowing into the rivers during heavy rain.

Lead Safety & Transparency

Pittsburgh has an aggressive Lead Service Line Replacement program. If you are moving into an older home (pre-1978), you should be aware of the plumbing status.

• Free Testing: All Pittsburgh Water customers can request a free lead test.
• The Map: You can search the Lead Line Map to see if your prospective rental or home has a historical record of lead pipes.
• Reimbursement: If you own a home and replace your private lead line, you may be eligible for reimbursement or income-based grants.

Learn more about Testing Your Water for Lead

Buying a Home? The “Dye Test” Requirement

If you are buying a house in Pittsburgh, you will hear about the “Evidence of Compliance” or Dye Test.

• What it is: A plumber puts dye in your gutters/downspouts to ensure rain water is NOT flowing into the sanitary sewer.
• The Rule: You cannot sell a house without a certificate proving your storm drains are disconnected from the sewer (in sanitary sewer areas). This is strictly enforced to prevent basement backups and river pollution. Ensure your seller has completed this before closing.

Water Conservation Tips from PWSA

• Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators
• Use rain barrels to collect water for outdoor use
• Check toilets and faucets for leaks regularly

Trash & Recycling: The “Blue Bin” Rules

If you live within the City of Pittsburgh, your trash collection is included in your taxes. You do not need to set up a billing account. However, the rules for what goes in the bin are strict and enforced.

• Trash: Collected weekly.
• Recycling: Collected bi-weekly (every other week).

The 2025 Recycling Update: Tubs are In, Clamshells are Out

As of January 2025, Pittsburgh updated its recycling acceptance list. It is vital you know the difference between “Tubs” and “Clamshells” to avoid your bin being rejected.

YES – Put in the Blue Bin (Loose, No Bags):

• Plastic Tubs: Yogurt cups, cottage cheese containers, butter/sour cream tubs (Lids removed). New for 2025!
• Bottles & Jugs: Milk jugs, water bottles, detergent jugs (necks smaller than the base).
• Glass: All colors of bottles and jars.
• Cans: Aluminum and steel.
• Cardboard: Must be flattened. Boxes left round or filled with styrofoam will often be left on the curb.

NO – Do Not Recycle Curbside:

• Clamshells: The clear, hinged plastic containers used for berries, cherry tomatoes, and takeout. These are trash in the city program.
• Plastic Bags: Store bags jam the sorting machines. Take them to a grocery store kiosk.
• Takeout Containers: Coffee cups and greasy pizza boxes.

The “Insider” Solution for Clamshells & Glass

If you hate throwing away those plastic berry containers (clamshells), there is one local loophole.

• Michael Brothers Hauling: This local company accepts #1 PET plastic clamshells and glass at their drop-off drive-thru (located in the South Hills/Baldwin area). Check their latest acceptance list here.

City Drop-Off Centers: For Everything Else

For items that don’t fit in your bin (tires, yard debris, shredded paper), the City operates several drop-off centers.

• The Strip District Center: Located at 3001 Railroad St (under the 31st Street Bridge). This is the most accessible location for most residents.
• Construction Junction: Located in Point Breeze, they accept reusable building materials and often host hazardous waste collection events.

Moving to the Suburbs? (Outside City Limits)

If you move just across the border to a borough like Dormont, Wilkinsburg, or Bellevue, the system changes completely.

Municipal Contract: In others (like Mt. Lebanon), the municipality contracts a hauler, and it may be added to your local tax bill. Always ask your landlord or realtor: “Is trash municipal or subscription?”

Private Subscription: In many suburbs, you must privately subscribe to a hauler like Waste Management (WM), Republic Services, or County Hauling. You will receive a quarterly bill.

Best Internet Providers in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has a competitive internet market with fiber, cable, and wireless options available throughout the city. Whether you need ultra-fast speeds for remote work or just reliable browsing, you’ll find solid options.

Top Internet Providers in Pittsburgh:

• Xfinity: Widely available, over 99% of the city, they offer high-speed cable internet with speeds up to 2 Gbps, often bundled with TV or phone.
• Verizon Fios: Also widely available throughout 93% of Pittsburgh, offering fiber internet with symmetrical upload/download speeds up to 2.3 Gbps, known for excellent reliability.
• T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: Great for renters or light users; plug-and-play setup with no wires.

When choosing, compare not just speeds, but also:

• Equipment rental or installation fees
• Data caps and throttling policies
• Customer service reviews
• Bundled discounts with mobile or TV

Relocation Logistics: Parking, Taxes & The DMV

Beyond pipes and wires, moving to Pittsburgh involves navigating a few unique administrative quirks. From reserving a spot for your moving truck to understanding why a private company is sending you tax bills, here is what you need to know to settle in legally.

The Parking Permit “Catch-22”

Many of Pittsburgh’s most desirable neighborhoods (Lawrenceville, South Side, Oakland, Shadyside) are designated Residential Permit Parking (RPP) zones. To park on the street for more than 2 hours, you need a permit.

• The Catch: To get a permit, you need a Pennsylvania vehicle registration and a driver’s license with your new address.
• The Problem: You just moved here, so you don’t have those yet.
• The Solution: The Pittsburgh Parking Authority will accept a signed lease or a utility bill (gas/electric/cable) as temporary proof of residency.
  • Action Item: Print your “Start Service” confirmation email from Duquesne Light or Peoples Gas immediately. This is often the fastest way to get the proof you need to avoid tickets in your first week.

Reserving a Spot for Your Moving Truck

Pittsburgh streets are narrow. If you are moving into a rowhouse or apartment building, you likely need to reserve curb space for your moving truck.

• The Permit: You must apply for a “Moving Truck Permit” through the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure (DOMI).
• The Signs: Once approved, you are responsible for picking up “Emergency No Parking” signs and posting them at least 48 hours in advance of your move. If you fail to post them in time, police cannot enforce the tow zone if a neighbor is parked in your spot.
• Apply Here: Visit the OneStopPGH to apply for street obstruction permits.

The “Jordan Tax Service” Letter is NOT Spam

One of the most common confusions for new residents is receiving a bill from Jordan Tax Service. Many toss it, thinking it is a scam or junk mail. It is not.

• Earned Income Tax (EIT): Unlike many places where local taxes are collected by the city/county, Pittsburgh (and many suburbs) utilizes a third-party collector for the 3% local income tax.
• The Split:
  • Jordan Tax Service collects the Earned Income Tax (wage tax) and the Local Services Tax (LST).
  • The City Treasurer collects Real Estate Taxes.
• What to do: When you receive the “Act 32” residency certification form from your employer or a bill from Jordan, fill it out immediately. Failing to register can lead to back-taxes and penalties later.

The 15-Day DMV Rule

Pennsylvania is strict about address updates. By law, you are required to notify PennDOT of your change of address within 15 days of moving.

• Update Online: You can update your address online.
• Real ID: If you are upgrading to a Real ID, you will likely need to visit a Driver License Center in person with your birth certificate and two proofs of residency (again, those utility bills are essential).

Public Transit: Get a ConnectCard

If you plan to use the bus or “The T” (Light Rail), cash is inconvenient and costs more.

• The Card: Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) uses a smart card system called ConnectCard.
• Where to get it: You can buy one at the downtown service center or at many Giant Eagle grocery stores.
• The App: You can also use the Ready2Ride mobile app to buy passes and scan your phone upon boarding.

The 2025 Utility Budget: What Will I Actually Pay?

One of the biggest surprises for people moving to Pittsburgh is the imbalance between rent and utilities. While housing prices here are often lower than the national average, utility costs, specifically water and sewage, are among the highest in the country due to federally mandated infrastructure updates.

When budgeting for your move, do not use national average utility calculators. They will underestimate your costs by 30-40%.

The “Real Number” Estimator (2025-2026)

Below is a realistic monthly budget for a standard 2-bedroom home or apartment in the City of Pittsburgh, assuming moderate usage.

Utility Service	Provider	Est. Monthly Cost	Why is it this price?
Water & Sewer	Pgh Water / ALCOSAN	$130 – $170	The Shock Factor: Includes water, expensive sewer treatment (ALCOSAN), and the new stormwater fee.
Electricity	Duquesne Light	$145 – $190	Based on the 2025 Price to Compare (~13.75¢/kWh) + distribution fees. Electric heat will drive this higher.
Natural Gas	Peoples Gas	$40 – $250+	Seasonal Extremes: Summer bills are ~$40 (fixed fees). Winter bills can easily exceed $250. Budget Billing is essential.
Internet	Fios / Xfinity	$50 – $90	Dependent on speed. Fiber competition helps keep these rates standard.
TOTAL		$365 – $700+	Budget at least $450/mo for utilities to be safe.

The “Rent vs. Utility” Trade-Off

If you are moving from a city like New York, DC, or Chicago, you might be used to high rent but negligible water bills (sometimes included in rent).

• In Pittsburgh: You might find a great apartment for $1,400, but you must factor in that $170/month water bill if the landlord passes it on to you (which is standard for single-family rentals).
• Ask the Landlord: “Are water, sewage, and the stormwater fee included in the rent?” If the answer is no, add ~$170 to the asking rent price to get the true cost of the unit.

Two “Hidden” Costs to Watch For

Beyond the standard wires and pipes, two other line items often catch new residents off guard:

1. The “Wage Tax” (EIT): Pittsburgh has a local Earned Income Tax of 3% (1% for the municipality + 2% for the school district). This is deducted directly from your paycheck. If you work remotely for an out-of-state company, you are responsible for setting this aside and paying it quarterly to Jordan Tax Service, or you will face penalties.
2. The Stormwater Fee: Even if you don’t use much water, you will pay a fixed fee (approx $10-$12/mo) based on the “impervious surface” (roof, concrete) of the property. This appears on your Pittsburgh Water bill.

The Bottom Line: Pittsburgh is an affordable city, but its utility infrastructure is old and undergoing expensive renewal. Budgeting $500/month for total household utilities (Energy + Water + Internet) is a safe baseline for a standard 2-3 bedroom home in 2025.

Green Energy and Conservation in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh has made notable strides in embracing green energy. The city has pledged to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2035, and many utility providers offer sustainable programs to help residents lower their carbon footprint.

Green Options Include:

• Community solar programs: Allows renters and homeowners to support solar without installing panels.
• Duquesne Light’s renewable plans: Many REPs offer 100% wind or solar plans.
• PWSA rain garden incentives: Helps with stormwater runoff management.

Additionally, many homes are eligible for energy audits through DLC’s Watt Choices or Peoples Gas efficiency programs, ideal for identifying air leaks, insulation gaps, and inefficient appliances.

Financial Assistance Programs

Utility bills can be burdensome, but Pittsburgh residents have access to several local, state, and provider-specific assistance programs designed to help.

City & State Assistance:

• LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps cover heating costs in winter. Apply through the PA Department of Human Services.
• Dollar Energy Fund: Works with DLC, Peoples Gas, and PWSA to offer one-time grants to help with overdue bills.
• CAP Programs: Available through Duquesne Light and Peoples Gas to offer discounted monthly rates for income-eligible residents.
• Hardship Funds: From each utility provider for short-term assistance during emergencies.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free upgrades to improve energy efficiency in income-qualified homes.

For water bills, PWSA offers:

• Bill Discount Program: 20% off water usage and all stormwater charges for income-qualified customers.
• Winter Shutoff Moratorium: Prevents disconnections from December through March.

You can also call PA 211 or visit pa211sw.org to be connected with local utility and housing support programs.

Pittsburgh Internet Connectivity

Fastest Internet Providers in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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.