This area is served by 31 utility providers across 4 categories. The average residential electricity rate here is 16.4¢/kWh. 62% of households use natural gas as their primary heating fuel.
Utility rates in ZIP 50056 vs. US average
Typical monthly utility bills in ZIP 50056
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
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Internet
Nearby ZIP codes
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up utilities when moving to 50056?
Contact each provider separately before your move-in date. Start with electric (City of Ames - (IA)) 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 50056 compare to the national average?
Residential electricity in Colo, IA averages 16.4¢/kWh — close to the US average of 16.5¢/kWh. Natural gas in Iowa averages $10.33/Mcf, about 29% 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 50056?
Electricity costs in Colo, IA are close to the national average. Compared to Iowa overall, rates here are about 23% higher. Local rates from NREL (2023); state and US averages from EIA (2024).
What internet providers are available in 50056?
Colo, IA has strong broadband coverage. Providers include AT&T (Fixed Wireless up to 25 Mbps), Colo Telephone Company (Fiber up to 1,000 Mbps), Partner Communications Cooperative (Fiber / DSL up to 250 Mbps), T-Mobile (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps), UNITED STATES CELLULAR CORPORATION (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps). Availability varies by street address. Based on FCC Broadband Data Collection filings.
What county is 50056 in?
ZIP code 50056 is in Story County, Iowa.
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.