Updated April 23, 2026
Propane vs Electric Heat Cost Calculator
See exactly which heating system costs less — side by side, instantly.
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Compare Your Heating Costs Side by Side
Propane Heater
US average ~$2.80/gal. Check local prices.
Most propane heaters: 80–95%.
Electric Heater
US average $0.13/kWh.
Electric resistance heaters are 100% efficient.
Propane vs Electric — Average Monthly Cost (US 2026)
At US average rates — propane at $2.80/gal and electricity at $0.13/kWh — electric resistance heating is cheaper than propane for most home scenarios. A medium home heating system running 8 hours a day costs roughly $49/month on electric vs $87/month on propane. Propane only wins in off-grid locations with no grid access.
| Scenario | Propane | Electric | Cheaper Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (20,000 BTU, 6 hrs) | ~$28/mo | ~$23/mo | Electric |
| Medium (50,000 BTU, 8 hrs) | ~$87/mo | ~$49/mo | Electric |
| Large (100,000 BTU, 10 hrs) | ~$218/mo | ~$98/mo | Electric |
| Off-grid (propane only) | ~$87/mo | N/A | Propane |
Propane $2.80/gal 85% efficiency. Electric $0.13/kWh 100% efficiency.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose Electric If...
- ✓Grid electricity available
- ✓Rate below $0.15/kWh
- ✓Zero maintenance needed
- ✓Small to medium space
Choose Propane If...
- ✓Off-grid or rural location
- ✓Natural gas unavailable
- ✓High-BTU output needed fast
- ✓Local propane below $2.50/gal
Consider a Heat Pump If...
- ✓You want lowest long-term cost
- ✓Mild to moderate US climate
- ✓Need heating and cooling both
For homes with natural gas service, our natural gas vs electric cost guide compares all three fuel types — gas, electric resistance, and heat pump — side by side with real US rate data.
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