Natural Gas Bills Set to Decline This Winter
Good news is coming for millions of households as natural gas bills are projected to drop 8% this winter compared to the higher price averages of recent years. The American Gas Association (AGA) released its Winter Heating Outlook, highlighting affordability and reliability as the industry’s top strengths heading into the 2025–2026 heating season.
Richard Meyer, AGA Vice President of Energy Markets, Analysis and Standards, emphasized the significance of the report.
“Natural gas continues to be America’s strategic advantage for affordable, reliable energy heading into the 2025-2026 winter heating season,” Meyer said.
Why Natural Gas Prices Are Falling
The AGA explained that increased production, efficiency improvements, and strong domestic storage are behind the lower bills. Even as demand surges — driven by LNG exports and higher consumption during colder weather — producers have kept pace.
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Production: Technically recoverable domestic natural gas resources have risen 16%.
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Storage: Inventories are above the five-year average as withdrawal season approaches.
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Efficiency: Energy efficiency has reduced consumption per customer, keeping bills in check.
Impact of Colder Winter Forecasts
A continuation of last year’s La Niña pattern signals a colder-than-average winter in the lower 48 states. This could increase consumption as families use more energy to heat homes.
Still, Meyer reassured customers:
“Prices remain 10% lower than they were a few years ago. Natural gas utilities are part of the communities they serve and work hard every day to put customers first.”
Meyer also encouraged households to take advantage of weatherization programs and energy assistance funds available through utilities.
Comparing Energy Costs
Natural gas remains one of the most affordable energy sources compared to electricity and gasoline. According to AGA:
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Natural gas bills average $867 annually
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Electricity bills average $1,763 annually
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Gasoline costs households about $2,449 annually
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Cell phone service costs around $1,270 annually
This comparison underscores why natural gas continues to play such a critical role in American households.
The Bigger Picture for Natural Gas
Natural gas demand growth expectations are rising between 5–9% through 2026. Much of this growth comes from LNG exports. The drilling rig count is also up 18%, signaling robust investment in natural gas even as oil rig numbers dip.
Despite demand growth, inflation-adjusted natural gas prices remain historically low, helping families, businesses, and industries plan ahead with confidence.
📌 More Energy News
See the full winter outlook presentation here.
Source: press release
