- Get upto a $300 Reward Card
- $10 off Fiber for 12 Months
- Reliable Fiber Speeds up to 5 Gbps
- Plans starting at $34/month
Electric Providers in Seattle
Seattle City Light is the sole provider for the city, and you can set up your service by completing an online application on their website or calling. It is best to schedule your start date at least one week in advance to ensure a seamless transition when you move in.
Natural Gas Providers in Seattle
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) provides natural gas to the Seattle area, and you can start service by using the “Move In” tool on their website or by calling. Make sure to have your Social Security number and the exact service address ready, as they may require a credit check or a deposit for new accounts.
Top 13 Internet Providers in Seattle
Major providers include Xfinity, Quantum Fiber, and Astound Broadband, with availability varying significantly by neighborhood. To set this up, use each provider’s online “address checker” to confirm which high-speed options are available at your specific home before calling to schedule an installation.
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 52.25%
- $34.00/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- 78.3%
- $45.00/mo
- 2.3 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 57.92%
- $49.99/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 94.88%
- $40.00/mo
- 940 Mbps
- Fiber
- 1 TB
- Phone
- 78.3%
- $50.00/mo
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 99.95%
- $50.00/mo
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 69.84%
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 69.08%
- $47.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 70.02%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 99.99%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 8 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- 4.71%
- $70.00/mo
- 5 Gbps
- Cable
- 1 TB
- 42.14%
- $19.95/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in Seattle
Water and sewer services are managed by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and are typically bundled with your trash service on a single bill. You can open an account online through the Seattle Services Portal or by calling, though renters should first check if their landlord handles this billing.
Top 11 Trash and Recycling Providers in Seattle
Garbage, recycling, and food/yard waste services are also handled by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) and are automatically established when you set up your water account. When starting service, you will need to choose your garbage bin size (20, 32, 60, or 90 gallons), as your monthly rate is determined by the size of the trash container you select.
Utilities Summary for Seattle, WA
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 2 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 11 |
| Municipal Electricity: | Yes |
Setting up Utility Services for Your Home in Seattle
Seattle is a beautiful and dynamic city nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, known for its lush greenery, vibrant tech scene, and eco-conscious culture. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or simply a change of pace, getting your utilities set up is an essential step in making your new house feel like home. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about electricity, natural gas, water, trash, internet, renewable energy options, and financial assistance programs available in Seattle.
Electricity in Seattle
Electricity in Seattle is primarily provided by Seattle City Light, one of the nation’s greenest public utilities. Founded in 1905, the utility delivers carbon-neutral electricity, mostly from hydroelectric sources, to more than 900,000 residents in Seattle and surrounding areas. Seattle City Light is publicly owned, which means that profits are reinvested into infrastructure, energy rebates, and community programs rather than shareholders.
Energy efficiency rebates are available through Seattle City Light’s residential programs. These include:
- Instant rebates on energy-efficient appliances (like fridges and washers)
- Up to $1,200 in rebates for home insulation upgrades
- Discounted LED lighting and smart thermostats
- Rebates for converting from electric to heat pump water heaters
Seattle City Light also offers online energy audits and virtual home energy consultations to help you reduce your monthly bill and environmental impact.
Natural Gas in Seattle
Natural gas service in Seattle is provided by Puget Sound Energy (PSE), the region’s largest utility. PSE supplies natural gas to more than 800,000 customers across western Washington. Their infrastructure serves most of Seattle, although some neighborhoods, especially downtown, may rely more on electric heating.
PSE offers several energy efficiency rebates, including:
- Up to $1,000 for upgrading to an ENERGY STAR high-efficiency gas furnace
- Incentives for smart thermostats, gas tankless water heaters, and weatherization
- No-cost energy consultations for homeowners
Water and Sewer in Seattle
Water and sewer services in Seattle are managed by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), a city-run department committed to sustainability and water quality. SPU sources its water from the protected Cedar and Tolt River watersheds, delivering some of the cleanest drinking water in the nation.
In addition to standard water and sewer services, SPU offers:
- Discounts on low-flow toilets and water-saving fixtures
- Free water-saving kits (showerheads, aerators, etc.)
- Rebates for rain gardens and cisterns through the RainWise program
Water bills in Seattle include charges for water, sewer, and drainage services. The utility’s billing system also includes seasonal rate adjustments to reflect changing consumption patterns.
Trash, Recycling, and Compost
Trash, recycling, and food/yard waste pickup in Seattle is handled by Seattle Public Utilities in partnership with private haulers like Recology and Waste Management. Seattle is a leader in waste reduction, with a citywide goal to divert 70% of waste from landfills.
Every household in Seattle is required to separate waste into three bins:
- Black bin: Garbage (landfill)
- Blue bin: Recycling (paper, plastics, metals)
- Green bin: Compost (food scraps, yard waste, compostable packaging)
Seattle bans food and recyclables from landfill trash, and violators may face extra charges. The city also offers free bulky item pickups (up to twice a year) and appliance recycling programs.
Best Internet Providers in Seattle
Seattle offers robust internet options, thanks to its strong tech infrastructure and fiber availability in many neighborhoods. Whether you’re working from home or just streaming your favorite shows, you’ll find plenty of choices.
- Xfinity: Offers cable internet with speeds up to 2 Gbps and affordable bundles. Available citywide (98% coverage).
- AT&T Fiber: Available in about half of the Seattle area with symmetrical fiber plans up to 5 Gbps. Great for gamers and remote workers.
- CenturyLink/Quantum Fiber: Fiber service available in select neighborhoods, offering no-contract plans with unlimited data.
- T-Mobile Home Internet: If you’re looking for wireless internet, T-Mobile’s 5G home internet option is a great option. No contracts and straightforward pricing.
- Astound Broadband (formerly Wave): Available in some areas of West Seattle and North Seattle, with flexible internet plans.
Before choosing, check address-specific availability and compare speed, price, and contract terms.
Renewable Energy and Sustainability in Seattle
Seattle is a national leader in renewable energy and sustainable living. Seattle City Light’s electricity is nearly 100% carbon-free, sourced primarily from hydropower. But if you want to go above and beyond, there are more green energy choices available.
Green programs and tips include:
- Green Up Program: Choose to support renewable energy by adding a small fee to your electric bill (wind, solar, and biogas projects).
- Solar incentives: Seattle City Light offers net metering and support for rooftop solar installation.
- RainWise rebates: Get help installing rain gardens or cisterns to manage stormwater runoff and protect Puget Sound.
Seattle also supports electric vehicles with hundreds of public charging stations, and the city continues to expand bike lanes, pedestrian zones, and public transit options to reduce car dependency.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills
If you’re facing financial hardship, Seattle offers a wide range of income-based utility assistance programs. These programs are administered through the city and local providers to ensure essential services remain accessible.
Seattle Utility Discount Program (UDP)
- Up to 60% off electric bills and 50% off water/sewer/garbage
- Open to renters and homeowners
- Qualification based on income and household size
Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)
- One-time credit for past-due Seattle City Light or SPU bills
- No documentation required in certain cases
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Federal program administered locally by agencies like Hopelink and Byrd Barr Place
- Helps with natural gas or electric bills (PSE and Seattle City Light)
PSE HELP Program
- Bill credits of $200 to $1,000 annually for qualifying customers
- Available to PSE customers earning up to 200% of federal poverty level
Additional tips
- Call 2-1-1 to be connected to local nonprofits and energy assistance organizations
- Some providers offer budget billing or payment plans
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.
Seattle Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Seattle
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Quantum Fiber | Fiber | 8 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| Verizon Fios | Fiber | 2.3 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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| CenturyLink | Fiber | 940 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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| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps 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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| 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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| Astound Broadband | Cable | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
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Seattle 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.
Seattle's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
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
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I schedule my utility setup?
For electricity (Seattle City Light) and gas (PSE), you should ideally schedule your start date at least 7 days before your move-in date. For internet service, especially if an onsite installation is required, it is recommended to book 2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred move-in window.
Can I have service at two addresses at once while I move?
Yes. When transferring service, you can request an overlap period (usually up to 30 days) so you have power and water at both your old and new homes during the transition. Note that you will be billed for usage at both locations during this time.
What information do I need to have ready to start service?
You will need the full service address, your move-in date, a Social Security number (for identity verification), and your contact information. Seattle utilities must comply with the federal FACT Act, so be prepared to answer a few identity-verification questions based on your credit history.
Do I need to set up water and trash service if I am renting?
In Seattle, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) generally only opens water, sewer, and garbage accounts in the property owner’s name. If you are renting, these services are typically managed by your landlord and billed back to you; you should confirm this with your property manager before moving in.
Are there any setup fees for new accounts?
Yes. Seattle City Light typically charges a $16 administrative fee to open a new account or transfer service, which will appear on your first bill. Puget Sound Energy and SPU may also charge connection or “account processing” fees depending on whether the service was previously active.
Why is my Seattle water bill so much higher in the summer?
Seattle Public Utilities uses seasonal water rates. From May 16 through September 15, water rates increase to account for the higher cost of providing water during the peak demand season.
How do I choose the right garbage bin size?
Your monthly utility bill is primarily determined by the size of your garbage (black) bin. Options range from a 12-gallon “micro” bin to a 96-gallon cart. Recycling and compost (green) bins are included in the service, so many residents save money by choosing a smaller trash bin and maximizing their recycling.
What happens if I miss my first bill?
New accounts in Seattle often don’t receive their first bill for 60 to 90 days because of the bimonthly billing cycle. If you haven’t received a bill after three months, call 206-684-3000 to ensure your mailing address is correct and avoid late fees.
Which internet providers in Seattle offer "No Contract" options?
Quantum Fiber and Astound Broadband are popular choices for those avoiding long-term commitments, as they frequently offer month-to-month plans. Xfinity offers both contract and no-contract options, though the lowest rates usually require a 1–2 year agreement.
Is 5G Home Internet a viable alternative to Fiber in Seattle?
Yes, especially in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Queen Anne where wiring older buildings for fiber can be difficult. T-Mobile and Verizon 5G Home Internet offer competitive speeds in Seattle, but you should check your specific “signal strength” on their maps before committing, as hills and trees can impact performance.