How Americans Heat Their Homes

Heating a home is a basic necessity, but Americans’ methods of doing so vary dramatically across the country. These differences aren’t just about climate; they’re shaped by historical choices, energy costs, and infrastructure. Let’s examine why America’s home heating systems are so diverse and what that means for the shift toward cleaner energy sources.

Four Main Heating Methods

Most U.S. homes use one of four fuels for heating: electricity, natural gas, propane, or fuel oil. Natural gas and electricity dominate, accounting for nearly 90% of home heating systems. But this balance shifts depending on where you live:

• Electricity: Found predominantly in the South, where milder winters make it cost-effective. Homes may use older electric resistance heaters or newer, energy-efficient heat pumps.
• Natural Gas: Common in urban areas across the Midwest, West, and Northeast due to the widespread availability of pipelines.
• Propane: More prevalent in rural areas lacking pipeline access.
• Fuel Oil: Concentrated in the Northeast, especially in older homes built before 1920.

A fascinating map the Washington Post team created using the American Community Survey 2021 data illustrates these regional patterns.

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