Rising Temperatures in Houston: Trends, Causes, and How They Impact Tenant Costs!
Houston has experienced a significant rise in temperatures over the past several decades, a trend that mirrors broader global patterns of climate change and warming. Recent data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local weather stations consistently show increases in average temperatures, including both daytime highs and nighttime lows. The pattern is clear: Houston is getting hotter, and the past five years, in particular, have shown more frequent, intense, and longer-lasting heat waves compared to historical norms.
To better understand this trend, the table below summarizes average temperature highs, lows, and electricity rates for the last five years:
| Year | Average temperature-high( °F) | Average temperature-low( °F) | Mean temperature (departure from normal in °F) | Residential electricity rate (cents/KWh) during September for a 12 month period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 82.1 | 62 | 72 | 10- 12 ¢ |
| 2021 | 71.2 | 61.3 | 71.2 | 13-15 ¢ |
| 2022 | 70.7 | 60.1 | 70.7 | 16- 18 ¢ |
| 2023 | 82.5 | 62.5 | 82.5 | 16- 18 ¢ |
| 2024 | 95(August) | 63(January) | 89 | 16.8 ¢ |
This table clearly displays two concerning trends: rising temperatures and rising electricity rates. For example, last year’s average temperature was 82.5°F, while this year it increased to 89°F—a 6.5°F rise. That spike matters because higher temperatures directly translate to higher cooling needs.
Energy usage increases somewhere between 6–8% for every 1% rise in temperature as air conditioning systems work harder to maintain comfortable indoor conditions. The 6.5°F increase could translate into nearly 48% more energy usage, which explains why tenants are experiencing drastic increases in their electricity bills—especially when combined with rising residential electricity rates.
Factors Contributing to Houston’s Rising Temperatures
Houston’s temperature rise is not the result of a single cause. Instead, it’s driven by several overlapping environmental and urban factors that amplify each other.
1. Global Warming
The most significant contributor is the global rise in greenhouse gas emissions—particularly carbon dioxide and methane. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, raising global temperatures. Houston, known for its industrial and energy-producing sectors, is especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Over recent years, the frequency of record-breaking high temperatures has increased, showcasing the undeniable acceleration of warming.
2. Urban Heat Island Effect
Houston’s urban environment intensifies heat retention. Areas packed with concrete, asphalt, buildings, and limited vegetation absorb heat during the day and release it slowly at night. This leads to higher nighttime temperatures, which prevent the city from cooling down naturally. As Houston continues to grow, this effect has become even more pronounced.
3. Increased Heatwaves
Houston is now experiencing longer and more intense heatwaves than in previous decades. Not only are these heatwaves more severe, but they also occur more frequently, creating prolonged periods of dangerous temperatures. This puts strain on local infrastructure, energy systems, and public health resources.
Impacts of Rising Temperatures
The effects of rising temperatures are far-reaching. They influence everything from public health to infrastructure to the day-to-day costs tenants face.
1. Health Risks
Higher temperatures significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and individuals with chronic health conditions are especially at risk. Severe humidity, which Houston is known for, makes high temperatures feel even hotter and more dangerous.
2. Damage to Infrastructure
Prolonged heat can cause structural issues, including:
- Road and pavement buckling
- Bridge expansion
- Damage to roofing materials
- Stress on electrical systems
These damages often require expensive repairs, which can eventually impact property owners and tenants through rent adjustments or maintenance fees.
3. Higher Water Consumption
As temperatures rise, so does water usage. Households use more water for:
- Irrigation
- Cooling systems
- Hydration
- General household use
This results in higher water bills and puts added pressure on municipal water supplies during peak summer months.
4. Changing Weather Patterns
Rising temperatures influence broader weather patterns. Houston may experience:
- Shifts in rainfall
- Increased humidity
- More intense thunderstorms
- Unpredictable seasonal changes
These shifts compound the effects of heat and further impact infrastructure, agriculture, and local ecosystems.
Energy Consumption and Financial Impact on Tenants
The most immediate impact tenants feel from rising temperatures is higher electricity bills. As global and local temperatures rise, cooling systems must work harder especially in Texas summers, which are already extreme.
Why Energy Costs Are Rising for Tenants:
1. Increased Air Conditioning Usage
Air conditioning often accounts for more than 50% of summer energy bills in Texas. During heatwaves, AC units run almost continuously to maintain livable temperatures, drastically increasing consumption.
2. Rising Electricity Rates
Houston’s electricity rates have increased over the last five years, with residents now paying between 16–18 cents per kWh in many cases. When combined with increased usage, this creates a substantial rise in monthly bills.
3. Energy Grid Strain
Extreme heat puts stress on the power grid. More energy is needed to power cooling systems, leading to:
- Peak pricing
- Higher demand charges
- Increased energy production costs
Utilities may adjust their rates to compensate for wear and tear, maintenance, and emergency demand.
4. Increased Storm and Weather Events
As temperatures rise, storm intensity often increases. Heatwaves and severe storms can damage energy infrastructure, leading to repairs and cost increases that eventually trickle down to consumers.
In summary, global warming can indirectly affect tenant bills not only through increased energy costs and water costs but also potential rent adjustments due to higher property maintenance or insurance costs and overall higher living expenses.
