When you’re looking for an apartment, one of the first things people tend to ask is: “What’s the rent?” But the real cost of living in an apartment goes beyond that monthly number. Utilities—like electricity, gas, water, internet, and more—can add up quickly and vary quite a bit depending on the location, season, and how much you use.
That’s why furnished, all-inclusive, month-to-month apartments like the ones we offer at Epicurean can be such a relief. Everything—yes, everything—is already set up before you arrive. The internet works, the water’s running, the lights are on, and you don’t need to juggle five different bills or make twenty phone calls just to get settled. One flat rate. No hassle.
But if you’re planning to furnish your own place and handle things independently, it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. Let’s break it down.
What Utilities Are Usually Required in an Unfurnished Apartment?
When you lease a traditional apartment, you’ll typically be responsible for setting up, managing, and paying for the following utilities:
- Electricity – powers lighting, appliances, heating/cooling (if electric), etc.
- Gas – used in many units for heating, hot water, or cooking
- Water & Sewer – often billed separately, or included with rent in some cases
- Trash Pickup – usually a small monthly fee, billed by the landlord or local city
- Internet / WiFi – you’ll have to choose a provider, schedule an install, and handle the ongoing bill
- TV / Streaming Services – optional, but often added separately
- Renter’s Insurance – not a utility, but often required and billed monthly
That’s a lot to set up, manage, and remember to pay—especially if you’re only staying for a few months.
Average Monthly Utility Costs by Category
To give you a sense of what you might expect if you’re handling everything yourself in Columbus, Ohio (or similar U.S. cities), here’s a rough monthly breakdown for a 1-bedroom apartment:
| Utility | Monthly Estimate |
| Electricity | $70–$120 |
| Natural Gas | $30–$60 |
| Water & Sewer | $30–$50 |
| Trash / Recycling | $10–$25 |
| Internet / WiFi | $50–$80 |
| Streaming / TV | $15–$60 |
| Renter’s Insurance | $10–$20 |
| Total (Approximate): | $215–$415/month |
And that doesn’t include deposits, installation fees, equipment rentals, or time lost waiting for service technicians.
How Furnished, All-Inclusive Apartments Simplify Everything
At Epicurean Furnished Apartments, we bundle all of the above into one flat, easy-to-understand monthly rate. That means:
No setup No keeping track of due dates No surprise fees or “gotcha” small print No waiting on hold with customer service reps
No hassle to cancel everything or return equipment when you move out
You just show up, unpack your suitcase, and settle in. And when you’re ready to move out? Just leave your keys on the counter and take off!
This is especially valuable if you’re:
- Relocating to Columbus temporarily for work or medical treatment
- Remodeling or building a new home
- Visiting family for a few months
- Repairing your home and need temporary insurance housing
It’s all included: electricity, gas, water, internet, parking, DirecTV, and even cleaning supplies. Plus, we’ve already handled any startup fees or equipment installations. All you have to do is show up with your suitcase and make yourself at home.
Seasonal Utility Spikes (And How to Avoid Them)
One of the most unpredictable things about managing your own utilities is how costs can spike depending on the time of year:
- Winter = high gas bills (heating)
- Summer = high electricity bills (AC)
- Anytime = rate hikes or weird fees you didn’t know existed
If you’re leasing your own apartment, you’ll need to allow extra room in your budget for these fluctuations.
Some utility providers do provide programs to make budgeting easier where they will give you a flat monthly rate to pay based on past usage patterns.
But when you book an all-inclusive apartment, you’re totally shielded from those fluctuations. Your cost stays the same month to month, regardless of whether it’s 90 degrees or below freezing outside.
The Hidden Time Cost of DIY Utility Management
Let’s be real—it’s not just about money. Setting up and managing utilities takes time, attention, and energy. Things like:
- Scheduling appointments
- Waiting for install techs (or sitting on hold)
- Navigating confusing bills
- Keeping track of due dates
- Troubleshooting outages
When life is already full (especially if you’re in town for medical care, a major work project, or a relocation), dealing with the water department or internet provider can be the last thing you want to add to your plate.
So… Should You Go All-Inclusive or DIY?
If you’re planning to stay long-term, love managing logistics, and want full control over every service, managing your own utilities might make sense.
But if you’re looking for a turnkey living solution—especially for just a few months—a furnished, all-inclusive apartment like the ones we offer at Epicurean can make your life dramatically easier.
Want to Make Your Stay in Columbus as Stress-Free as Possible?
Let us help. Our furnished, all-inclusive, short-term apartments are move-in ready, thoughtfully designed, and located in Columbus’s most desirable neighborhoods—just minutes from major hospitals, offices, and green spaces.
Check availability now or give us a call at 614-383-8246.
Skip the stress. Live well. We’ve got the rest covered.
