A brutal winter heating bill is coming for some homes
Summary
Heating costs for American homes using oil could rise by about 50% this winter, making bills much higher than last year. Families in the Northeast, where oil heating is common, will likely face the biggest increases due to global oil market issues and limited heating alternatives.Key Facts
- Heating oil bills could increase by about 50%, rising to over $2,600 on average this winter.
- Natural gas and propane heating costs are expected to fall or show smaller increases compared to oil.
- About 3% of U.S. households use oil for heat, mostly in the Northeast where 82% of heating oil is consumed.
- Rising oil prices are linked to global conflicts in Iran and Ukraine and less refinery activity.
- Some families may reduce spending on food or medicine or lower heating to unsafe levels to afford bills.
- States have fewer ways to assist oil heating customers compared to those with gas or electric utilities.
- Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Maine have declared energy emergencies and provided funds for relief.
- The Trump administration attempted to cut funding and staff for a key low-income heating assistance program (LIHEAP), but the program continues with reduced federal support.
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