Let me be straight with you: heating in Wisconsin isn't cheap, but it's not something you can skip either. I've been helping homeowners in this state figure out their heating bills for years, and the costs vary quite a bit depending on where you live and what system you're using. If you're planning a budget for the 2025 heating season or thinking about upgrading your furnace, you're in the right place.
Wisconsin winters are no joke. The average home here spends between $1,200 and $2,000 per heating season, but that number changes depending on your location and how old your equipment is.
In Milwaukee, you're looking at roughly $1,400 to $1,900 for a typical heating season if you're using natural gas. The city has relatively moderate winters compared to the northern parts of the state, but the cost of gas there is still significant. Propane users in Milwaukee typically spend $1,600 to $2,200 because propane costs more per unit than natural gas.
Madison sits a bit south and west, so heating costs are similar to Milwaukee—around $1,300 to $1,850 for gas heat. Madison winters are slightly less brutal than Green Bay, which helps keep costs down a little.
Now, head up north to Green Bay, and you're entering serious winter territory. Expect to pay $1,800 to $2,400 for a full heating season with natural gas. These folks deal with longer, colder winters, so their furnaces run hard and often. If you're using propane up there, add another $300 to $500 to that estimate.
Kenosha, sitting right on Lake Michigan between Milwaukee and Chicago, experiences some of the mildest winters in Wisconsin. Heating bills typically run $1,200 to $1,700 for gas heat. The lake effect helps moderate temperatures compared to inland areas.
Let me break down the main factors that impact what you'll actually pay:
Age of Your Furnace: This is huge. An old furnace from the 1990s might only be 78% efficient, meaning you're wasting 22% of your fuel. A modern furnace runs at 95% efficiency. That difference can add $300 to $500 to your annual bill. If your furnace is over 15 years old, replacing it might actually save you money.
Fuel Type: Natural gas is usually the cheapest option in Wisconsin, running about $0.80 to $1.10 per therm right now. Propane costs more—typically $2.50 to $3.50 per gallon. Electric heat is expensive too, usually costing $400 to $600 more per season than gas. Oil heat falls somewhere in the middle but requires more maintenance.
Home Size and Insulation: A 2,000 square foot home with good insulation will cost less to heat than the same size home with drafty windows and thin walls. Insulation upgrades in your attic and basement can reduce heating costs by 10 to 15%.
Thermostat Settings: This one's personal preference, but lowering your thermostat by 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day can cut heating costs by 10%. A programmable thermostat pays for itself pretty quickly here in Wisconsin.
If you're thinking about replacing your heating system, here's what you're looking at in 2025:
A standard gas furnace replacement runs $3,500 to $5,500 installed. High-efficiency models (95%+ AFUE) cost $4,500 to $6,500. Heat pumps, which are becoming more popular even in Wisconsin for supplemental heating, run $5,000 to $8,000 installed.
I know that's a lot of money upfront, but a new furnace typically lasts 15-20 years. When you factor in the fuel savings, many homeowners break even in 7 to 10 years.
If you just need repairs—maybe a blower motor replacement or a new thermostat—expect to pay $150 to $400 for a service call plus parts.
You don't need to replace your whole system to save money. Here are some quick wins:
Q: Is it cheaper to heat with gas or propane in Wisconsin?
A: Natural gas is almost always cheaper than propane. You'll typically save $300-$600 per season with gas if you have access to it. Only use propane if natural gas isn't available in your area.
Q: How often should I have my furnace serviced?
A: At least once a year, ideally in the fall before heating season kicks in. A tune-up costs $100-$150 and can prevent breakdowns when you need your heat most.
Q: What's a good temperature to set my thermostat during the day?
A: Most people are comfortable at 68-72°F during the day. For every degree you lower it, you save about 1-3% on heating costs. At night or when you're away, setting it to 62-65°F is a sweet spot for savings without sacrificing comfort.
If you want to talk through your heating options or get a quote for a new system, give us a call at (888) 424-3817. We serve Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, and everywhere in between. We'll help you find the best solution for your budget and your home.
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