Average district heating costs per month: everything you need to know
Switching to district heating often raises questions about monthly expenses. How much do you pay on average, how are the tariffs calculated, and how does it compare to gas?
In this article, we explore the average monthly costs of district heating in 2025, what determines the price, and how both households and organizations can manage their energy costs effectively.
How are district heating costs calculated?
District heating costs consist of several components:
Fixed costs (connection and service fees):
Cover network maintenance, infrastructure and connection charges.
Variable costs:
Based on the actual amount of heat consumed, measured in gigajoules (GJ).
Metering costs:
For the measurement and administration of your heat consumption.
The Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) sets maximum annual tariffs under the no more than otherwise rule, ensuring that district heating should not cost more than comparable gas usage.
Cost structure: fixed fees, consumption and metering
Exact costs vary per supplier and usage profile, but in 2025 the average monthly costs for district heating are expected to be:
- Fixed fee: €35 – €50 per month
- Consumption: €25 – €100 per month (depending on insulation and property size)
- Metering: €3 – €10 per month
For an average household, this adds up to €80 to €160 per month. Well-insulated homes are typically at the lower end of this range, while larger or poorly insulated properties pay more.
District heating vs gas: which is cheaper in 2025?
In theory, district heating may not be more expensive than gas.
However, some residents experience higher bills due to increased fixed costs and limited choice of suppliers.
This makes transparency in tariffs and insight into consumption more important than ever.
Read also: How Is District Heating Consumption Measured?
Factors that influence monthly costs
1. Insulation
Better insulation directly lowers variable heat costs.
2. Heating behavior
Smarter thermostat use can save significant energy.
3. Type of contract
Tariff structures differ between suppliers.
4. Monitoring
With an Energy Management System (EMS), you can identify inefficiencies and optimize usage.
District heating costs for businesses and institutions
Discussions about the average cost of district heating often focus on households, but businesses and institutions also face major impacts.
Healthcare facilities, housing associations, universities and multi-site companies may have high fixed costs or inefficient energy distribution.
For these organizations, insight is key.
By using monitoring and smart control, they can detect irregularities early, improve operational efficiency and meet reporting obligations such as ESG and CSRD.
In that sense, district heating is not just a sustainable choice — it’s also a strategic business decision.
Four Tips to Reduce Monthly District Heating Costs
- Improve insulation in buildings or homes.
- Use smart thermostats for more efficient heating.
- Encourage energy awareness among residents or employees.
- Monitor and manage intelligently with an EMS like Aurum EnergyGrip.
The future of district heating and tariff development (2026)
From 2026, the Dutch Heat Act 2026 will take effect. Municipalities will gain more control, and pricing will need to become more transparent.
In addition, more networks will be linked to sustainable heat sources, such as geothermal energy or industrial waste heat, which is expected to help stabilize long-term costs.
Gaining control through smart monitoring
By monitoring at both neighborhood and organizational levels, residents and businesses gain insight into their heat consumption and costs.
For municipalities, this data is also valuable for developing local energy policies and tracking sustainability progress.
Read also: Monitoring District Heating at Neighborhood Level: Opportunities for Municipalities
Heat in perspective
In 2025, the average monthly cost of district heating for households ranges between €80 and €160, depending on insulation and building size.
For companies and institutions, absolute costs are higher, but smart monitoring and control make a real difference.
With better insight, renewable heat sources, and new legislation on the horizon, district heating is becoming a more reliable and future-proof energy solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about district heating costs
What are the average district heating costs per month in 2025?
Between €80 and €160 for households, depending on building type and consumption.
Is district heating more expensive than gas?
In principle, no — the no more than otherwise rule ensures it shouldn’t be. However, higher fixed costs can sometimes increase total bills.
What do district heating costs consist of?
Fixed connection and service fees, variable consumption per GJ, and metering costs.
How can I reduce my monthly heating costs?
By improving insulation, heating efficiently, and monitoring consumption with an EMS.
How does this apply to businesses?
The same cost components apply, but on a larger scale. Monitoring helps organizations manage costs and comply with reporting requirements.
Will tariffs change in 2026?
Yes. The new Heat Act will make tariffs more transparent and give municipalities more control.