Is Utilities a Mixed Cost

Mixed costs are costs that contain a portion of both fixed and variable costs. Common examples include utilities and even your cell phone!

Is electricity a mixed cost?

A mixed cost contains a fixed portion of cost incurred even when the facility is idle, and a variable portion that increases directly with volume. Electricity is an example of a mixed cost. A company must incur a certain cost for basic electrical service.

What are some mixed costs?

Utilities including electricity, water and natural gas are usually mixed costs. You are charged a fixed rate for using a base amount and then pay an additional variable charge for any usage over the base amount. For example, your water company charges you a fixed $75 charge for using up to 500 gallons of water.