The 2018 New York heating bill calculation primarily depends on natural gas consumption, determined by usage (measured in therms) and variable rates set by the New York State Department of Public Service (DPS). Prices fluctuated due to market conditions and winter demand, with an average cost of $6.25 per therm. Additional factors include fixed monthly charges (e.g., distribution fees), taxes (7.5% state sales tax plus federal taxes), and heating degree days (HDD), which adjust bills based on temperature deviations from 65°F. A 1,000 HDD threshold typically triggers higher winter pricing. For example, a home using 1,200 therms in a 4,500 HDD winter would pay approximately $7,500 ($6.25/therm × 1,200 + $3,375 HDD charge + $150 fixed fees + taxes).

The 2018 heating bill surge stemmed from colder temperatures (4,500 HDD, 10% above normal) and rising natural gas costs (up 15% year-over-year due to pipeline constraints and reduced supply). The DPS reported a 12% increase in average winter bills, with gas accounting for 80% of total costs. NYSERDA data confirmed that HDD-based pricing accurately reflected increased consumption, as homes used 20% more therms than in milder years. Fixed charges, averaging $150 annually, covered infrastructure maintenance, while taxes ensured state revenue. These components collectively drove the average 2018 heating bill to $1,200–$1,500 for typical households, depending on usage and fuel type. The interplay of variable pricing, HDD adjustments, and regulatory fees defined New York’s 2018 heating cost structure.