Setting up utilities in a new city is tedious but straightforward if you know who to call and what to expect. Provo's utility landscape is slightly different from most cities — the city operates its own electric utility (Provo Power), which is unusual and generally a good thing (competitive rates, local customer service). Here's every utility you need to set up, in the order you should do it.
The Checklist
1. Electricity — Provo Power
Contact: (801) 852-6000 · provo.org/utilities Setup: Call or visit Provo City offices before your move-in date Cost: $60–$120/month (varies by unit size and season)
Provo operates its own municipal electric utility, which means you deal with the city directly — not a large corporation. Rates are competitive, customer service is local, and setup is usually fast. Call at least a few days before your move-in to ensure power is on when you arrive. A small deposit may be required for new accounts.
2. Natural Gas — Dominion Energy
Contact: (800) 323-5517 · dominionenergy.com Setup: Online or by phone Cost: $30–$80/month (higher in winter for heating)
Dominion Energy is the sole natural gas provider. Gas powers most heating systems and some stoves/water heaters in Provo. Winter bills (December–February) are significantly higher than summer bills due to heating demand. Budget for $60–$80/month in winter and $20–$40/month in summer.
3. Water & Sewer — Provo City
Contact: (801) 852-6000 Setup: Through Provo City utilities (same contact as electricity) Cost: $30–$50/month
Water and sewer are handled through the city utility office, often bundled with your electricity account. Provo's water comes from mountain sources and is generally high quality. You can set up water service at the same time as electricity.
4. Trash & Recycling — Provo City
Contact: (801) 852-6000 Setup: Included with city utility service Cost: Included in utility fees
Trash collection is managed by the city and is typically included in your utility billing. Recycling pickup is available. Check Provo's waste management page for pickup schedules by neighborhood.
5. Internet
Contact: Varies by provider Setup: Schedule installation early — wait times can be 1–2 weeks during peak moving season Cost: $30–$100/month depending on provider and speed
This is the one utility where you have real choice. See our Best Internet Providers Guide for a complete comparison of Google Fiber, Xfinity, UTOPIA, and other options. The key advice: check Google Fiber availability at your specific address before signing your lease.
6. Renters Insurance
Not a utility, but don't skip it. Most landlords in Provo require renters insurance. Even if they don't, it's worth the $15–$30/month for protection against theft, fire, and liability. Companies like Lemonade, State Farm, and USAA offer quick online quotes.
What's Usually Included in Rent
Many Provo apartments — particularly student housing — include some utilities in the rent. Common inclusions:
Often included: Water, sewer, trash, sometimes basic internet Rarely included: Electricity, gas, premium internet Never included: Renters insurance, phone
Always ask exactly which utilities are included before signing a lease. "Utilities included" sometimes means all of them and sometimes means only water and trash. Get it in writing.
Monthly Utility Budget
For a typical one-bedroom apartment in Provo:
| Utility | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $60–$120 |
| Gas | $30–$80 |
| Water/Sewer | $30–$50 |
| Internet | $50–$70 |
| Renters Insurance | $15–$30 |
| Total | $185–$350 |
The wide range reflects seasonal variation (winter heating costs spike gas and electricity) and lifestyle differences (a small studio uses less power than a large apartment).
Tips
Set up accounts before move-in day. Don't arrive at a dark, cold apartment. Call Provo Power and Dominion Energy at least 3–5 business days before your move-in.
Budget for winter. Your first December utility bill will be noticeably higher than summer bills. The heating demand in Provo's cold winters (regularly below freezing December–February) drives gas costs up significantly.
Use autopay. Every Provo utility offers autopay, and several (Dominion Energy, Xfinity) offer small discounts for enrolling. Set it up and forget it.
Monitor your usage. Provo Power and Dominion Energy both have online portals where you can track daily and monthly usage. If a bill seems unusually high, check your usage data before calling — often the spike is explained by a cold snap or a forgotten space heater.
Related Guides
- Moving to Provo: The Ultimate Guide
- Best Internet Providers in Provo
- First-Time Renter's Checklist
- Cost of Living in Provo
- Best Apartments Near BYU
Last updated: April 2026. Utility rates and contact information are subject to change.