Most U.S. households can expect lower heating expenditures this winter (October through March) compared with the past two winters. In most regions, the decline in expenditures is attributed to the combination of warmer weather and lower fuel prices.According to EIA’s Winter Fuels Outlook, average household expenditures for homes heating primarily with natural gas will total $578 this winter, a $64 decline from last winter’s average. Homes primarily using propane are expected to spend $1,437 this winter ($322 less). Homes heating primarily with heating oil are expected to spend $1,392 ($459 less). Homes heating primarily with electric heat are expected to spend $930 ($30 less). The average household winter heating fuel expenditures summarized above provide a broad guide to changes compared with last winter. However, fuel expenditures for each household are highly dependent on the size and energy efficiency of individual homes and their heating equipment, thermostat settings, local weather conditions, and market size.

Source: Household heating costs are expected to be lower than previous two winters – Today in Energy – U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)