ZIP code 21046 covers Columbia, Maryland in Howard County. This area is served by 13 utility providers across 5 categories. The average residential electricity rate here is 11.4¢/kWh. 74.1% of households use electricity as their primary heating fuel.
Estimated monthly utility costs
$378/month
Cost estimates from U.S. Census ACS 5-year data · Shorter bar = lower cost
Electric
Natural Gas
Water
Sewer
Internet
Business Internet
These providers offer business-class internet service in this area.
Nearby ZIP codes
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up utilities when moving to 21046?
Contact each provider separately before your move-in date. Start with electric (Baltimore Gas & Electric Co) and gas (Baltimore Gas And Electric Co, (800) 685-0123) since those typically need a few business days to activate. Water and sewer are often handled with one call to your local utility. Set up internet last since it may require an installation visit.
How much do utilities cost per month in 21046?
Total estimated monthly costs are around $377, which is about $6 less than the national average. Electricity is the biggest expense at roughly $175/month. Natural gas runs about $175. Water and sewer combined are around $28. Costs vary by home size, usage, and season. Estimates from U.S. Census ACS data.
Is electricity expensive in 21046?
No — electricity in Columbia, MD costs about 24% less than the national average. Based on 2023 NREL residential electricity rate data.
What internet providers are available in 21046?
Columbia, MD has strong broadband coverage. Providers include AT&T (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps), T-Mobile (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps), Verizon (Fiber / Fixed Wireless up to 2,048 Mbps), Xfinity (Fiber / Cable up to 5,000 Mbps), Xtel Communications (Fiber up to 75 Mbps). Availability varies by street address. Based on FCC Broadband Data Collection filings.
What county is 21046 in?
ZIP code 21046 is in Howard County, Maryland.
Disclaimer: Provider information is sourced from federal databases including HIFLD, EPA SDWIS, FCC Broadband Data, and EIA-861. Utility cost estimates are from the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. Electric rates are based on 2023 NREL data. Coverage areas are approximate and may not reflect recent changes. Please verify directly with your provider.
Data sources: U.S. Census Bureau, NREL, EIA-861, HIFLD, EPA, FCC. Last updated: April 2026.