How Much Are Utilities in Medford, OR on Average?
In Medford, Oregon, the total average monthly residential utility cost is $391 per month ($4,688 annually) for a typical 3-person single-family residence occupying 1,800 square feet. This comprehensive monthly expenditure comprises $142.60 for electricity (priced at $0.138/kWh via Portland General Electric (PGE)), $50.80 for municipal water through Medford Water & Sewer Dept, $57.75 for natural gas through NW Natural, $88.00 for municipal sewer, and $35.00 for solid waste sanitation. Due to local climate normals (1,589 Cooling Degree Days), peak summer air conditioning increases monthly power bills by 38% over spring baselines.
Seasonal HVAC Impact: Cooling vs. Heating Degree Days
NOAA data records 1,589 Cooling Degree Days (CDD) annually in Medford. Upgrading insulation and implementing smart HVAC scheduling can save up to $460 annually in peak summer billing cycles.
Measures intensity and duration of outdoor temperatures requiring air conditioning.
Quantifies heating fuel consumption (natural gas therms or heat pump energy).
Medford, OR Geographic Utility Coordinates
Official Medford Utility Rate Schedules (2026)
Published fixed base charges, volumetric consumption blocks, and local service providers.
| Utility Type | Primary Provider | Fixed Monthly Base | Volumetric Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity (Power) |
Portland General Electric (PGE)
(800) 542-8818
|
$11.50/mo | $0.138 / kWh |
| City Water |
Medford Water & Sewer Dept
(503) 823-7770
|
$16.00/mo |
Tier 1: $5.80 Tier 2: $7.80 / 1k gal |
| Natural Gas |
NW Natural (800) 422-4012
|
$14.00/mo | $1.25 / Therm |
| Sewer Service | Medford Water & Sewer Dept | $24.00/mo | $12.80 / 1k gal |
| Curbside Trash & Recycle | Municipal Solid Waste Dept | $35.00/mo | Included standard cart |
Moving to Medford: How to Set Up Utilities
Essential transfer lead times, security deposits, and activation guidelines.
Schedule Portland General Electric (PGE) Power Activation
Schedule power hookup at least 7 business days prior to closing or lease start. Call (800) 542-8818 or enroll online.
Waive Security Deposits with a Utility Letter of Credit
Avoid upfront deposits of $150 – $250 by requesting a 12-month zero-late-payment Letter of Good Standing from your prior provider.
Activate Municipal Water & Solid Waste Services
In Medford, water, wastewater, drainage, and curbside recycling are billed as a unified municipal statement through Medford Water & Sewer Dept.
Medford Rooftop Solar Economics & Net Metering (2026)
With residential electricity in Medford priced at $0.138/kWh (supplied by Portland General Electric (PGE)), solar installations can eliminate up to 85% of grid power charges while hedging against summer rate increases.
Oregon OPUC standard 1:1 net metering with annual March true-up rollover.
| Financial Component | Estimated Value | Regulatory Source |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Turnkey System Cost (Avg $2.85/W) | $21,090 | NREL Annual Technology Baseline |
| Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (30% ITC) | -$6,327 | Inflation Reduction Act (IRC § 25D) |
| Net Out-of-Pocket Homeowner Cost | $14,763 | Direct purchase / financed basis |
| First-Year Electric Bill Offset | $1,811 / yr | Medford electric rate baseline |
| 25-Year Cumulative Net Profit | +$45,920 | Indexed at 2.5% utility escalation |
Frequently Asked Questions in Jackson County
What is the average monthly water bill in Medford for a family of 3?
For a 3-person household consuming approximately 5,800 to 6,500 gallons per month, the total water and sewer bill in Medford averages between $75 and $115 per month, including the fixed monthly base meter fee ($16.00) and sewer volume charges.
Why are electric bills in Medford higher during the summer?
NOAA 1991-2020 climate averages document 1,589 Cooling Degree Days and 4,976 Heating Degree Days annually across Jackson County. In Medford, peak July air conditioning increases your kWh electric bill by 38% compared to winter baseline.
Is electricity deregulated in Medford?
No, electricity in Medford is supplied directly by Portland General Electric (PGE) as a regulated public utility service.