Dallas-Fort Worth Electricity Rates
The DFW Metroplex has over 100 competing electricity providers. Make sure you're getting the best rate.
Compare Rates Across DFW
Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, and surrounding cities all use Oncor (same TDSP), so rates are similar across the metro.
DFW Summer Electricity Bills: What to Expect
Your AC can use 3x more electricity in July and August than in spring.
Central AC in the Dallas-Fort Worth area uses around 3 kWh per hour when running. During July and August, when it hits 100°F+ and your AC runs nearly non-stop to keep your house at 74-78°F, expect bills that are 30% higher than milder months.
Summer Usage Reality
Rest of Year
Dallas winters are mild, so heating costs stay manageable. Most homes use gas heat, which keeps electric bills lower than summer.
About Oncor (Your TDSP)
Oncor Electric Delivery is the transmission and distribution utility (TDSP) for Dallas and most of the DFW Metroplex. They own the power lines, transformers, and your electric meter, regardless of which retail provider you choose.
Oncor's delivery charges are the same no matter which electricity provider you pick. As of late 2025, they charge:
- →Base charge: $4.23/month
- →Delivery charge: ~5.60¢/kWh
The rates on our comparison tool already include Oncor's delivery fees. What you see is what you'll actually pay per kWh.
Typical DFW Electricity Usage by Home Size
Your actual usage depends on home size, insulation, thermostat habits, and number of occupants. Here's what's typical across the DFW area:
| Home Type | Summer (Jun-Aug) | Winter (Dec-Feb) | Summer Bill (@ 16¢/kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (500-1,000 sq ft) | 700-1,100 kWh | 600-900 kWh | $112-$176 |
| Small home (1,000-1,500 sq ft) | 1,000-1,400 kWh | 800-1,100 kWh | $160-$224 |
| Medium home (1,500-2,500 sq ft) | 1,400-1,900 kWh | 1,000-1,400 kWh | $224-$304 |
| Large home (2,500+ sq ft) | 1,800-2,500+ kWh | 1,300-1,800 kWh | $288-$400+ |
Bills significantly higher? You might have air leaks, poor insulation, or an aging AC unit working inefficiently.
DFW Electricity Rates: What's a Good Price?
Competitive fixed-rate plans from reputable providers
Dallas average is 16.13¢/kWh. You can do better.
Switch providers. You're leaving money on the table.
Watch Out for Usage-Based Tricks
Some plans advertise super-low rates at exactly 1,000 kWh, but the rate jumps if you use 999 or 1,001 kWh. During DFW summers when you're hitting 1,500-2,000 kWh, these "teaser rate" plans get expensive fast.
Always check the rate at 2,000 kWh when comparing plans. That's what you'll actually use June through August.
Best Times to Switch Electricity Providers in DFW
Smart Switching Times
- •April-May: Lock in fixed rates before summer demand drives prices up
- •October-November: Usage drops, providers compete harder for customers
- •45 days before contract ends: Avoid auto-renewal at higher month-to-month rates
- •When you move: New service address means no early termination fee
Times to Avoid
- •Late June-August: Peak demand = higher rates across the board
- •During extreme weather: Temporary price spikes after winter freezes
- •Mid-contract: Early cancellation fees often $150-$300
Common DFW Electricity Questions
Is Dallas-Fort Worth electricity deregulated?
Yes. The entire DFW Metroplex (Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, etc.) has been part of the deregulated Texas electricity market since 2002. You can choose from over 100 retail electricity providers competing for your business. Oncor still delivers the power, but you pick who bills you and at what rate.
Why is my DFW electric bill so high in summer?
AC is the main culprit. During 100°F+ days in July and August, your central AC can use 3 kWh per hour and run nearly constantly. That can add 500-700 kWh to your monthly usage. Even at a good rate of 12¢/kWh, that's an extra $60-84 per month just for AC.
Should I choose a fixed or variable rate plan in DFW?
For most DFW residents, fixed-rate plans are the better choice. They protect you from summer price spikes and make budgeting easier. Variable plans can be cheaper in mild months but usually cost more in July and August when you need AC the most. The predictability of fixed rates is worth it.
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