Lifestyle Appeal: Modesto Utilities Explained

A Guide to Local Service Providers and Average Monthly Costs

Welcome to Modesto! Whether you’re closing on a craftsman bungalow in the College Area, settling into a new build in Village One, or renting an apartment downtown, getting a handle on your monthly utility budget is step one of settling in.

One of Modesto's hidden perks is that it sits outside some of the more expensive utility networks in California. Because electricity and water are largely locally managed, rates here can be surprisingly competitive compared to the Bay Area or Southern California.

Here is your complete guide to setting up your home, who to call, and what you can expect to pay in 2025.

1. Electricity: Modesto Irrigation District (MID)

Unlike most of Northern California, Modesto does not rely on PG&E for electricity. Power is provided by the Modesto Irrigation District (MID), a community-owned public utility.

• Why this matters: MID rates are historically lower than investor-owned utilities like PG&E. However, be aware that rates have recently increased (approx. 5.5% hike in 2025) to cover infrastructure upgrades.

• The "Summer Spike": Modesto summers are hot (often exceeding 100°F). Your bill in July/August will likely be double your bill in April/May due to air conditioning.

Pro Tip: MID offers a "Budget Pay" program that averages your annual usage into equal monthly payments, so you don't get hit with a massive bill in July.

2. Water & Sewer: City of Modesto

Water and sewer services are generally handled by the City of Modesto. If you live in a specialized district or county pocket (like parts of Salida or Empire), this might vary, but for most, it's the City.

Water

Most homes are now on metered rates, meaning you pay a base fee plus what you actually use.

• Base Rate: ~$27.62 per month (for a standard 5/8" meter).

• Usage Rate: ~$2.20 per CCF (1 CCF = 748 gallons).

• Typical Bill: A family of four using ~6,000 gallons (indoor) + moderate outdoor watering can expect to pay $45 - $65/month.

Sewer

This is usually a flat rate, which makes budgeting easy.

• Single-Family Home: ~$42.48 / month.

• Apartment/Multi-Family: ~$28.79 / unit.

3. Garbage & Recycling

Trash collection in Modesto is divided between private haulers like Gilton Solid Waste and Bertolotti Disposal, but for most city residents, the billing is consolidated or standardized through the City.

• Standard Service: Includes three cans (Black for trash, Blue for recycling, Green for organics/compost).

• Estimated Cost: ~$42 - $55 / month depending on your specific zone and can size (90-gallon toters cost more than smaller ones).

• Bulky Item Pickup: Both providers typically offer free bulky item pickups (e.g., for old mattresses or furniture) twice a year by appointment—don't pay to dump these at the transfer station!

4. Natural Gas: PG&E

While electricity is local, natural gas is provided by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). You will need this for your furnace, water heater, and potentially your stove/dryer.

• Seasonal Variance: Opposite of your electric bill. Gas bills are low in summer (~$20-$40) and peak in winter (~$100-$200) depending on how warm you keep your house.

• Average Monthly: ~$60 (year-round average).

5. Internet & Cable

Modesto has a healthy mix of fiber and cable options.

• AT&T Fiber: Widely available in newer neighborhoods. Speeds up to 5Gbps.

• Xfinity (Comcast): The most ubiquitous cable provider; good speeds but watch for data caps on lower tier plans.

• EarthLink: Another viable fiber/DSL alternative in specific zones.

Budget: $50 - $90 / month for high-speed internet (500Mbps - 1Gbps).

The Bottom Line: What Will You Pay?

To help you budget, here are two common scenarios for Total Monthly Utility Costs (excluding phone/streaming apps).

Scenario A: The Solo Apartment Renter

Living in a 1-bedroom apartment, sensible AC usage.

• Electricity: $85 (avg)

• Water/Sewer/Trash: $60 (often bundled in rent, but if separate: ~$70)

• Gas: $25

• Internet: $50

• TOTAL: ~$220 - $230 per month

Scenario B: The Family of Four

Living in a 2,000 sq. ft. house, daily laundry, watering a lawn.

• Electricity: $250 (year-round avg; higher in summer)

• Water: $60

• Sewer: $42.50

• Trash: $50

• Gas: $60

• Internet: $80

• TOTAL: ~$540 - $550 per month

Who to Call: Quick Reference List

• Electricity: Modesto Irrigation District (MID) - (209) 526-7373

• Water/Sewer: City of Modesto Utilities - (209) 577-5395

• Gas: PG&E - (800) 743-5000

• Garbage: Check the sticker on your bin (Gilton or Bertolotti) or call the City to determine your specific hauler.