This area is served by 39 utility providers across 4 categories. The average residential electricity rate here is 17.3¢/kWh. 65.4% of households use natural gas as their primary heating fuel.
Utility rates in ZIP 49696 vs. US average
Typical monthly utility bills in ZIP 49696
Figures from U.S. Census ACS 5-year estimates, reflecting households that pay utilities separately from rent. In dense urban areas where heat or hot water is often included in rent, these numbers represent the subset of residents who pay directly.
Electric
Natural Gas
Water
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 49696?
Contact each provider separately before your move-in date. Start with electric (Cherryland Electric Coop Inc) and gas (Dte Gas Company, (616) 451-3545) 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 do utility rates in 49696 compare to the national average?
Residential electricity in Traverse City, MI averages 17.3¢/kWh — close to the US average of 16.5¢/kWh. Natural gas in Michigan averages $10.76/Mcf, about 26% below the national average. Actual monthly bills vary by home size, insulation, and season. Local rates from NREL; state and US averages from EIA Form 861 (2024); natural gas prices from EIA Form 176 (2024).
Is electricity expensive in 49696?
Electricity costs in Traverse City, MI are close to the national average. Compared to Michigan overall, rates here are about 10% lower. Local rates from NREL (2023); state and US averages from EIA (2024).
What internet providers are available in 49696?
Traverse City, MI has strong broadband coverage. Providers include 186networks (Fiber up to 1,024 Mbps), ACD.net (Fiber up to 10,000 Mbps), AT&T (Fixed Wireless / DSL up to 100 Mbps), Acentek (DSL up to 50 Mbps), Cherry Capital Connection LLC (DSL up to 25 Mbps). Availability varies by street address. Based on FCC Broadband Data Collection filings.
What county is 49696 in?
ZIP code 49696 is in Grand Traverse County, Michigan.
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. Local electric rates are based on 2023 NREL Utility Rate Database data; state and US averages are from EIA Form 861 (2024). 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: May 2026.