New Yorkers Brace for Soaring Heating Bills Amid 12-Day Deep Freeze

Prolonged sub-freezing temperatures could add hundreds to home heating costs this winter.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:31pm

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New York City is in the midst of a 12-day deep freeze, with temperatures remaining below freezing since last Friday. This extended cold snap is expected to significantly increase home heating costs for residents, with heating oil, propane, and electric space heater usage potentially adding hundreds of dollars to monthly bills. Experts advise New Yorkers to take steps like lowering thermostats, sealing drafts, and dressing warmly to help manage the financial impact.

Why it matters

Prolonged periods of extreme cold can put a major strain on household budgets, especially for lower-income New Yorkers who may struggle to afford the higher heating costs. This story highlights the real-world impacts that climate change-driven weather events can have on everyday life and personal finances.

The details

According to estimates, the 12-day deep freeze could add $276 to $381 in extra heating oil costs for a typical 2,000-2,500 sq ft home in New York, depending on location. Propane users could see an additional $326 in costs over the same period. Even running a space heater 24/7 could rack up an extra $109 on electric bills. Experts advise taking steps like lowering thermostats, sealing drafts, and using blankets to help manage the financial impact.

  • The deep freeze began on Friday, January 27, 2026.
  • Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing until Monday, February 9, 2026.

The players

Scott Grillo

A home care and cleaning expert who provided advice on managing heating costs during prolonged cold snaps.

Kate B.

An Upper West Side renter who spent a weekend without working heat in her apartment, relying on a space heater provided by her landlord.

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What they’re saying

“Most people should expect heating bills to go up during prolonged cold stretches. When temperatures stay below freezing, heating systems have to run longer and harder, especially overnight, and that usually shows up quickly on the bill.”

— Scott Grillo, Home care and cleaning expert (New York Post)

“There's a lot of frustration with my landlord because there has been little to no response. I told them I don't want to renew a lease on an apartment where the heat doesn't work, and they said, 'Yeah, that's not good. Let's try and fix it.' And they still haven't fixed it.”

— Kate B., Upper West Side renter (New York Post)

What’s next

The New York Department of Public Service said the amount of bill increases is difficult to pinpoint at this time, but they acknowledged that usage will increase, leading to higher bills.

The takeaway

This prolonged cold snap highlights the financial strain that extreme weather events can place on households, especially for lower-income New Yorkers. While there are steps residents can take to manage heating costs, the story underscores the need for policies and programs to support vulnerable populations during periods of extended harsh winter weather.