This area is served by 20 utility providers across 4 categories. The average residential electricity rate here is 11.0¢/kWh. 71.5% of households use electricity as their primary heating fuel.
Utility rates in ZIP 71003 vs. US average
Typical monthly utility bills in ZIP 71003
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
Nearby ZIP codes
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up utilities when moving to 71003?
Contact each provider separately before your move-in date. Start with electric (Claiborne Electric Coop, Inc) and gas (Atmos Energy - Lousiana Division, (888) 286-6700) 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 71003 compare to the national average?
Residential electricity in Athens, LA averages 11.0¢/kWh, about 33% below the US average of 16.5¢/kWh and 6% below the Louisiana state average of 11.7¢/kWh. Natural gas in Louisiana averages $16.38/Mcf, about 13% above 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 71003?
No — electricity in Athens, LA costs about 33% less than the national average. Compared to Louisiana overall, rates here are about 6% lower. Local rates from NREL (2023); state and US averages from EIA (2024).
What internet providers are available in 71003?
Athens, LA has strong broadband coverage. Providers include AT&T (Fixed Wireless / DSL up to 30 Mbps), Optimum (Cable up to 940 Mbps), T-Mobile (Fixed Wireless up to 25 Mbps), Verizon (Fixed Wireless up to 300 Mbps). Availability varies by street address. Based on FCC Broadband Data Collection filings.
What county is 71003 in?
ZIP code 71003 is in Claiborne County, Louisiana.
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.