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Northeast households face the biggest heating cost rise

KMBC • September 14, 2026 • business

Key Points:

U.S. households are projected to spend nearly 9% more on heating this winter, averaging $1,030 from mid-November through mid-March, despite an expected warmer winter due to El Niño.
Heating oil prices are expected to rise the most, increasing by 31% to nearly $2,300 on average, driven by global oil market disruptions linked to the U.S.-Iran conflict and higher crude oil prices.
Electricity heating costs will also increase by about 9%, influenced by rising demand from AI data centers and constraints in upgrading the aging power grid infrastructure.
The Northeast region will experience the highest heating cost impact due to longer winters, reliance on heating oil, and higher electricity rates, with average heating oil costs projected at $2,297 and electricity at $1,885.
Rising heating costs may strain household budgets, prompting recommendations for energy efficiency improvements and exploring energy-assistance programs to mitigate the financial impact.

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