Are utility costs higher in the Florida Keys?
Utility costs in the Florida Keys are generally higher than comparable costs in mainland Florida. Geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, year-round cooling demands, and the cost of delivering services to a long island chain all contribute to above-average utility expenses for Florida Keys property owners.
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Quick answer
- Overall: yes, utility costs in the Florida Keys tend to be higher than mainland Florida averages
- Electricity: year-round air conditioning demand and delivery costs push electric bills higher
- Water: the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority delivers water from the mainland making water costs notable
- Sewer: many properties are on septic systems; those on central sewer pay connection and usage fees
- Propane: many Florida Keys homes use propane for cooking and water heating adding a separate fuel cost
- Vacation homes: utility costs continue even when the property is unoccupied due to cooling and humidity control needs
Electricity costs in the Florida Keys
- Keys Energy Services serves much of the Florida Keys with rates that reflect the cost of island delivery
- Year-round humidity and heat mean air conditioning runs continuously for most of the year
- Older homes with less efficient HVAC systems and poor insulation have higher electric bills
- Impact windows and proper insulation help reduce cooling loads and electric costs
- Vacation homes left unoccupied still require maintained cooling to prevent mold and humidity damage
Water and sewer costs
- The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority pipes fresh water from the mainland making water delivery infrastructure extensive
- Water rates reflect the cost of this long delivery system and are higher than most mainland utilities
- Properties on septic systems avoid central sewer fees but face periodic septic maintenance costs
- Monroe County has been expanding central sewer connections in many areas with associated hookup and usage fees
Other utility considerations
- Propane delivery is common for cooking and water heating in areas without natural gas service
- Trash and recycling services vary by area and may involve separate fees
- Internet and cable service options are more limited than in urban mainland markets
- Solar installations are increasingly common in the Florida Keys to offset high electric costs
More Florida Keys real estate questions
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