- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- 30 day money-back gurantee
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps**
- Plans starting at $30/month
Electric Providers in Milwaukee
Electricity in Milwaukee is provided by We Energies, and we recommend starting your service at least three to five business days before move-in by visiting their website or calling. Having your Social Security number and new address ready during the call will ensure your power is active the moment you unlock the door.
Natural Gas Providers in Milwaukee
Natural gas is also managed by We Energies, allowing you to conveniently bundle your heating and power into one simple account during your initial setup. We suggest confirming your gas service at least one week in advance to ensure your furnace and hot water are ready for those chilly Wisconsin mornings.
Top 8 Internet Providers in Milwaukee
Internet providers in Milwaukee include Spectrum and AT&T Fiber for most neighborhoods, with Google Fiber and EarthLink also available in select residential areas. We recommend checking address availability and “new resident” deals at least two weeks before your move to secure a high-speed fiber connection and a preferred installation window.
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 95.29%
- $34.00/mo
- Best For Speed
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 91.81%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.91%
- $20.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.96%
- $65.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $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
Water & Sewage Providers in Milwaukee
Water service is provided by Milwaukee Water Works, and while the account transfer is often handled during a home closing, new residents should contact customer service at (414) 286-2830 to verify account details. If you’re a renter, the water bill usually stays in the landlord’s name, so be sure to clarify who is responsible for payment in your lease agreement.
Top 13 Trash and Recycling Providers in Milwaukee
Trash and recycling collection is a city-run service managed by the Milwaukee Department of Public Works and is funded through your municipal service bill. If your new home is missing its bins or you need to check your specific collection day, you can call (414) 286-CITY (2489) or visit the city’s website to use their “Trash Day” lookup tool.
Utilities Summary for Milwaukee, WI
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 2 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 13 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Get Your Home Set Up with Essential Utilities in Milwaukee
As Wisconsin’s largest city, Milwaukee blends vibrant culture, lakeside charm, and Midwestern warmth. Surrounded by Lake Michigan, Milwaukee offers friendly neighborhoods, plenty of parks, a growing food scene, and a strong sense of community. As you settle in, navigating utility services may feel overwhelming, but this guide will walk you through everything from electric and gas providers to internet options and financial assistance, all with a warm, conversational vibe to help you feel right at home.
Electric Service: We Energies
Milwaukee’s primary electricity provider is We Energies, which also delivers natural gas. They offer reliable service alongside a variety of energy-efficiency rebates through their partnership with Focus on Energy. You can take advantage of rebates for smart thermostats (up to $50), advanced power strips, lighting upgrades, HVAC improvements, insulation, and even renewable energy like solar installations, all available via Focus on Energy and directly linked through We Energies.
Energy-Saving Tips from We Energies
- Smart thermostat rebates up to $50.
- Discounts on LED bulbs, advanced power strips, and efficient appliances.
- HVAC system rebates for installing ENERGY STAR® units.
- Insulation/air sealing, also via Focus on Energy.
- Solar incentives: rebates and possible low-interest loans through city programs.
We Energies customers also benefit from home energy assessments, online audits, and educational tools to reduce electricity use. Their ties to statewide programs make accessing upgrades easy and financially rewarding.
Natural Gas: We Energies
Natural gas for heating and cooking also comes from We Energies, whose energy-saving offerings extend to this service area. They provide:
- HVAC and high-efficiency furnace rebates.
- Discounts for ENERGY STAR® water heaters.
- Program support for gas-home retrofit projects, all coordinated via Focus on Energy .
These initiatives help reduce monthly bills, while helping the planet by conserving resources and curbing greenhouse gas emissions.
Water & Sewer: Milwaukee Water Works + MMSD
Water and sewer services in Milwaukee are handled by Milwaukee Water Works and the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD). They supply fresh drinking water and maintain wastewater infrastructure, with strong emphasis on conservation and green stormwater solutions. In recent years, they’ve invested in green infrastructure projects, like bioswales and permeable paving, to reduce runoff and improve water quality.
Conservation Highlights
- Reduced rates for water-saving fixtures and education on household conservation.
- Community green infrastructure programs helping mitigate pollution and flooding.
- Tips for residents: fix leaks promptly, install low-flow faucet and shower heads, and consider rain barrels for outdoor use.
These measures help you save on water bills and support sustainable city goals.
Trash & Recycling: Milwaukee DPW
The City of Milwaukee Department of Public Works (DPW) manages trash, recycling, and yard waste pick-up. Services include:
- Weekday curbside trash and recycling (blue cart for recyclables).
- Spring/fall yard waste collection, leaf & brush disposal.
- Mandatory recycling ordinance, citywide compliance is required.
- Optional bulk item pick-up (e.g., furniture, appliances) for an extra fee.
Keep an eye out for seasonal updates and special holiday schedules, DPW typically sends reminders via mail and posts them online.
Best Internet Providers in Milwaukee
Finding fast, affordable internet in Milwaukee is easy, with several excellent options:
- AT&T Fiber
- Fiber network available to 95% of the area.
- Offers up to 5 Gbps symmetric speeds; noted as the top-value and best overall provider in the area.
- Plans start around $42/month for 300 Mbps, with possible discounts for bundling.
- Spectrum
- Covers nearly 92% of the city.
- Provides cable internet with no data caps, plans from around 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
- Often cheaper for mid-tier plans and includes standard modem/antivirus at no extra cost.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Wireless 5G-based service at $50/month, no contracts, simple setup—ideal for roommates or small households.
- Verizon 5G Home
- Plans start at $50/month with price locks and include routers and extenders; $55/month tier supports larger households.
Reddit users confirm AT&T fiber gets top marks: “AT&T Fiber, hands down… $55/mo for 300Mbps symmetric… If it’s available do not even consider spectrum”. — reddit
Conservation & Green Energy Options
Milwaukee offers several green-energy programs:
- Solar installations: Rebates from Focus on Energy, plus low-interest solar loans via Milwaukee Shines.
- Energy-efficiency upgrades: The Me² (Milwaukee Energy Efficiency Program) helps homeowners fund insulation, furnace, and window upgrades with financing support and Focus on Energy linkages.
- Weatherization for income-qualified residents through WHEAP and local agencies like La Casa de Esperanza, providing free sealing, insulation, and energy-saving materials.
These choices help lower your utility costs while supporting Milwaukee’s sustainability efforts.
Financial Assistance & Bill Help for Utilities in Milwuakee
Several avenues exist to support households having difficulty paying utility bills:
Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) / Home Energy Plus (HE+)
- Provides bill-paying assistance and weatherization services, funded by state and federal dollars.
- Administered via Milwaukee County agencies, eligible low-income households can apply for grants, budget billing, and furnace repairs.
Focus on Energy Income-Qualified Incentives
- Enhanced rebates on insulation, heat pumps, and HVAC for income-eligible customers.
Solar Financing: Milwaukee Shines
- Low-interest municipal loans for residential solar projects make clean energy accessible.
Local Nonprofits (e.g., La Casa de Esperanza)
- Offer no-cost weatherization services (leak sealing, insulation) for qualifying low-income households in Milwaukee County .
Bottom line: If you’re facing financial strain, don’t hesitate to explore WHEAP, Focus on Energy, Me², Milwaukee Shines, and nonprofit weatherization, there’s meaningful help for income-qualified Milwaukee residents.
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.
Milwaukee Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Milwaukee
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Spectrum | Cable | 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 |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 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 |
Milwaukee 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.
Milwaukee'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
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I contact We Energies?
We recommend reaching out at least three to five business days before your move-in date. You can easily start service online. If you are moving during the winter, double-check that your heat is active at least 24 hours before you arrive so you don’t walk into a freezing house!
What is "Budget Billing" and should I use it?
Since Wisconsin winters can be quite cold, your heating bill in January will likely be much higher than in July. We Energies offers a Budget Billing plan that averages your energy costs over 12 months, so you pay the same amount every month. It’s a great way to avoid “sticker shock” during the peak of winter.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Safety first! Natural gas has a “rotten egg” odor added to it. If you smell it, stop what you’re doing, leave the building immediately, and do not use any light switches or phones. Once you are safe, call (800) 261-5325 or 911.
Why did I get a bill from the City for more than just water?
In Milwaukee, the City bundles your water, sewer, and trash/recycling fees into one Municipal Service Bill. It’s very convenient because you only have one city payment to track, but it can look a bit larger than a standard water bill because of those extra services.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Milwaukee Water Works is known for its high-quality filtration from Lake Michigan. However, because many Milwaukee homes were built before 1950, you may have lead service lines. You can check your address on the Milwaukee Water Works Lead Service Line Map and request a free water filtration pitcher or test kit if you have concerns.
Who pays for water: the landlord or the tenant?
In Milwaukee, it is very common for the water bill to stay in the landlord’s name, but some leases require tenants to reimburse the cost. Always double-check your lease agreement before move-in so you know exactly what is included in your rent.
How do I get rid of large furniture or appliances?
Welcome to the neighborhood! For items like couches or mattresses, Milwaukee offers Bulky Item Pickup. Most residents can put out up to two cubic yards (about the size of a loveseat) on their regular collection day. For anything larger, you’ll need to schedule a special pickup or visit one of the city’s “Drop Off Centers” on Industrial Ave or Eston Ave.
What are the rules for recycling?
Milwaukee uses “Single-Sort” recycling, meaning all your cans, glass, plastic, and cardboard go into the same blue bin. Pro tip: Do not put your recycling in plastic bags! Bagged recycling jams the machines at the sorting facility, so just toss your items in loose.
Are there rules about shoveling snow?
Yes! As a new Milwaukeean, it’s important to know that you are legally required to clear snow and ice from the sidewalks in front of your home within 24 hours of a snowfall ending. It helps keep the city walkable and safe for everyone!
Who has the fastest internet in Milwaukee?
AT&T Fiber and Spectrum are the primary providers. AT&T Fiber is expanding rapidly through neighborhoods like the East Side and Riverwest, offering symmetrical speeds that are great for working from home. We suggest checking availability at least two weeks before you move.
Is there a city app I should use?
Absolutely. Download the MKE Mobile Action app. You can use it to report missed trash pickups, check your recycling schedule, and even report potholes or broken streetlights. It’s the fastest way to get in touch with the city.
What is "4-Inch Rule" parking?
While not a utility, this is vital for new residents! When a “4-Inch Snow Emergency” is declared, parking rules change on many streets to allow plow trucks to clear the lanes. Be sure to sign up for Milwaukee’s Snow Mobile text alerts so you don’t end up with a ticket or a tow during your first winter.