This area is served by 24 utility providers across 5 categories. The average residential electricity rate here is 15.3¢/kWh. 52.4% of households use natural gas as their primary heating fuel.
Utility rates in ZIP 81321 vs. US average
Typical monthly utility bills in ZIP 81321
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.
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Nearby ZIP codes
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up utilities when moving to 81321?
Contact each provider separately before your move-in date. Start with electric (Empire Electric Assn, Inc) and gas (Atmos Energy Corporation, (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 81321 compare to the national average?
Residential electricity in Cortez, CO averages 15.3¢/kWh, about 7% below the US average of 16.5¢/kWh — but in line with the Colorado state average of 14.9¢/kWh. Natural gas in Colorado averages $10.58/Mcf, about 27% 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 81321?
No — electricity in Cortez, CO costs about 7% less than the national average. Local rates from NREL (2023); state and US averages from EIA (2024).
What internet providers are available in 81321?
Cortez, CO has strong broadband coverage. Providers include AT&T (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps), CenturyLink (DSL up to 100 Mbps), Clearnetworx (Fiber up to 1,000 Mbps), Ethos Broadband (Fixed Wireless up to 200 Mbps), Nimbus Solutions (Fixed Wireless up to 100 Mbps). Availability varies by street address. Based on FCC Broadband Data Collection filings.
What county is 81321 in?
ZIP code 81321 is in Montezuma County, Colorado.
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.