Charlotte Relocation Guide
Setting up utilities in Charlotte: a newcomer guide
Setting up utilities in Charlotte is straightforward if you know which providers serve your area. Here is the list.
Electricity: Duke Energy
Duke Energy is the primary electric provider for Charlotte and most of Mecklenburg County. Set up service 1-2 weeks before your move date through their website or by phone.
- Provider: Duke Energy
- Set up: duke-energy.com or 1-800-777-9898
- Average bill: $100-$180/month for apartment
- Average bill: $150-$300/month for house
Water: Charlotte Water
Charlotte Water (formerly Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utility Department) provides water and sewer service. Set up service online or by phone before moving in.
- Provider: Charlotte Water
- Set up: charlottewater.org or 311
- Average bill: $30-$60/month for apartment
- Average bill: $50-$120/month for house
Natural gas: Piedmont Natural Gas
Piedmont Natural Gas provides gas service in Charlotte. Not all apartments have gas, but most houses do. Check whether your home uses gas heating, stove, or water heater.
- Provider: Piedmont Natural Gas
- Set up: piedmontng.com or 1-800-752-7504
- Average bill: $20-$80/month depending on season
Internet: Spectrum, AT&T, Google Fiber
Internet options depend on your neighborhood. Spectrum has the widest coverage. AT&T Fiber is available in some areas. Google Fiber is available in select Charlotte neighborhoods.
- Spectrum: cable, most coverage, $50-$80/month
- AT&T: fiber in some areas, $55-$80/month
- Google Fiber: select neighborhoods, $70-$100/month
- Test speed before choosing if you work from home
Trash and recycling
Trash and recycling pickup is handled by the City of Charlotte for most residential addresses. In apartments, your complex handles this. In some suburbs, private haulers are used.
- City of Charlotte: automatic pickup, no extra fee
- Apartment: included in rent
- Suburb: may need private hauler, $15-$30/month
Ready to compare Charlotte neighborhoods?
Settle CLT has deeper neighborhood guides, a quiz, and a home-finding request form for newcomers.