Thinking about moving to Summerside, Prince Edward Island?
If so, you’re probably wondering—what’s the actual cost of living in Summerside? Whether you’re considering buying a home, renting an apartment, or simply looking to budget better, understanding daily expenses is crucial. Housing prices, utility bills, groceries, and transportation costs all contribute to the overall cost of living.
While Summerside remains more affordable than larger Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver, the expenses can still add up, especially if you’re not familiar with local utility costs. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about managing Summerside living expenses in 2025, from utilities to energy-saving tips.
Breaking Down Utility Expenses in Summerside
Understanding Summerside living expenses means taking a closer look at monthly utility costs. Utilities—including electricity, water, heating, internet, and cable—are essential parts of any household budget. However, these costs can vary depending on your home’s size, energy efficiency, and seasonal weather changes. If you’re planning to move here, knowing what to expect in utility expenses will help you create a realistic budget.
What Do Utilities Cover? A Quick Overview
When we talk about utility costs in Summerside, we’re referring to essential services that keep a home running smoothly. These typically include:
Electricity – Power for lighting, appliances, and heating/cooling systems.
Water & Sewer – Charges for water consumption and wastewater treatment.
Natural Gas – Used for heating and sometimes cooking.
Internet & Cable – Monthly costs for home connectivity and entertainment.
Home Phone – Less common nowadays but still available in bundled packages.
Each of these services comes with its own pricing structure, often influenced by market rates, local providers, and seasonal demand.
Why Utilities Are a Big Part of Your Household Budget
When calculating Summerside household expenses, utilities play a significant role. Unlike rent or mortgage payments, which remain constant, utility costs fluctuate depending on usage and external factors like weather conditions. A cold winter can drive up heating costs, while increased summer water usage might lead to higher water bills. Additionally, choosing energy-efficient appliances and being mindful of consumption can help keep your bills manageable.
How Much Do Utilities Cost in Summerside?
If you’re curious about the Summerside cost of utilities, here’s a breakdown of the average monthly expenses:
Electricity: $120–$160 per month
Water & Sewer: $50–$80 per month
Natural Gas: $70–$150 per month (seasonal fluctuations)
Internet: $70–$120 per month (depending on speed and provider)
Cable TV: $50–$100 per month
Home Phone: $30–$50 per month
Compared to other regions in Canada, Summerside's utility costs remain moderate. For example, electricity in Halifax often exceeds $200 per month, while Toronto residents may pay even more.
Summerside Utility Costs: Monthly & Annual Estimates
Living in Summerside means budgeting for essential utilities like electricity, water, heating, and internet. On average, total utility costs range from $300 to $600 per month, depending on household size and energy consumption. This translates to an annual expense of $3,600 to $7,200. Larger homes with high energy usage will naturally be at the higher end of this range, while smaller, energy-efficient homes can save significantly.
Breakdown of Utility Costs in Summerside:
Electricity Costs – Maritime Electric’s residential rate is around $0.16 per kWh, with an average household consuming 750–1,000 kWh per month. Heating, air conditioning, and appliance efficiency can greatly influence costs.
Water Bills – The city’s metered system means water bills range from $50 to $80 per month, with higher consumption leading to bigger charges. Using water-efficient appliances can help reduce expenses.
Natural Gas – Prices fluctuate based on the season. Winter heating costs can reach $150 per month, while summer months may see bills as low as $70. Proper insulation and smart thermostats can help manage usage.
Internet Costs – Providers like Eastlink and Bell Aliant offer plans from $70 to $120 per month. Fibre-optic services provide faster speeds but come at a higher cost.
Cable TV – Traditional cable TV plans cost $50 to $100 per month, but many residents are switching to streaming services like Netflix and Crave TV to cut costs.
Home Phone Services – A declining trend, but still available in bundled packages, with costs ranging from $30 to $50 per month. Many are opting for mobile-only plans instead.
Understanding these costs and making strategic choices—like choosing energy-efficient appliances and switching to lower-cost providers—can help keep your household expenses manageable.
What Factors Affect Utility Costs in Summerside?
Household Size: Bigger Homes, Higher Bills
Summerside energy efficiency is closely tied to the number of occupants in a home. Larger families tend to use more electricity, water, and gas, leading to higher utility bills. Small households can save by using energy-efficient appliances and mindful consumption habits.
Home Type and Energy Efficiency
The type of home you live in significantly impacts expenses. Apartments and condos usually have lower utility bills compared to detached houses. If you’re considering investing in Summerside’s real estate market trend in 2025, looking for energy-efficient homes can make a big difference in monthly costs.
Weather Conditions and Seasonal Costs
The weather impact on utilities in Summerside is noticeable, especially in winter when heating costs surge. Investing in proper insulation, weatherproofing windows, and using programmable thermostats can help control seasonal expenses.
Simple Ways to Reduce Your Utility Bills in Summerside
Managing your utility bills effectively can greatly affect your monthly expenses. Whether you’re looking to cut down on electricity, water, or heating costs, small changes can lead to big savings. One of the best ways to reduce expenses is by switching to lower-cost utility providers in Summerside. Many companies offer competitive rates for electricity, gas, and internet, and by comparing plans annually, you can ensure you're getting the best deal. Additionally, taking advantage of time-of-use pricing for electricity—such as running appliances during off-peak hours—can help you lower your bill even further.
Additional Ways to Save on Utilities:
Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances – ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerators, washers, and HVAC systems consume less power, reducing long-term energy costs.
Weatherize Your Home – Seal gaps, add insulation, and upgrade to energy-efficient windows to effectively maintain indoor temperatures.
Use Water Wisely – Install low-flow faucets, fix leaks immediately, and use water-efficient washing machines to reduce water consumption.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat – Smart thermostats can optimize heating and cooling, potentially reducing your energy bill by up to 20%.
By implementing these strategies, you can take control of your utility expenses while also making your home more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Final Thoughts: Managing Utility Costs in Summerside
The cost of living in Summerside remains reasonable compared to other Canadian cities, but utility expenses can add up quickly. Being mindful of energy consumption, choosing the right providers, and investing in energy-efficient solutions can help you save. If you’re considering relocating, check out our guide: Is Summerside the Perfect Place to Call Home in 2025? for more insights on housing and lifestyle trends.
What are your thoughts on utility costs in Summerside? Drop a comment below!
