When leasing an apartment, it’s essential to consider the full financial picture. One significant component often overlooked is the total monthly cost beyond the base rental rate.
Your total monthly cost will be higher than the base rental rates listed on apartment websites due to additional monthly fees and charges such as utilities, parking or pet fees. Knowing the specifics of these costs upfront can help you plan your budget more effectively.
At Paseo, our team has helped hundreds of people find their home in downtown Austin. To make sure you have a full understanding of the leasing processes and total costs associated with signing a lease at an apartment, we have written this article breaking down the costs of utility fees and how they are calculated.
Cost of Utilities at Apartments in Downtown Austin
For most downtown Austin apartments, base rent does not include utilities. However, some properties bundle specific utilities like trash, pest control or technology fees into your total monthly rate.
At Paseo, your total monthly rate conveniently includes utilities such as trash, technology and pest control, simplifying your budgeting process.
How are utility costs calculated?
Utilities like electricity, water, sewage and gas are often sub-metered for each unit and billed monthly based on usage.
Internet and cable charges vary by property. Some apartments provide in-house plans, while others require you to arrange these services through third-party providers.
What is the average monthly cost of utilities?
Utility charges in Austin typically range from $100 to $350, though this can vary based on individual usage and specific policies of each apartment complex.
This can vary greatly from apartment to apartment and may even fall outside of this range. Be sure to ask the properties you’re interested in what the average cost of utilities is each month when you tour.
Most apartments should be able to provide an estimate of typical utility costs. If not, you can always reach out to the local utility provider for a more accurate estimate.
How will utility costs be billed?
Utility costs are billed separately from rent installments. Most apartments will charge utility fees at the end of each month based on usage. This amount will typically be billed through a third-party app or service.
Specifically, at Paseo, your utility costs are transparently managed. Billed monthly through Conservice, we use the Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS), ensuring a fair allocation of costs based on your actual consumption.
We hope this guide helps you better understand the additional costs of living in a downtown Austin apartment. If you have any questions or need assistance finding your next home, reach out to our leasing team at Paseo. We’re here to help make your housing search as seamless as possible!
Erica Bang
Erica is a regular contributing author for Paseo, covering leasing tips and all things downtown Austin. She has 2 years of experience in multifamily leasing and marketing. In her free time, you'll find Erica at a yoga class, trying new coffee shops downtown, or traveling.
March 4, 2025