At a glance: Winter heating costs expected to fall

A winter that is expected to be warmer for most of the United States will combine with lower energy prices to create savings for residents, according to the U.S. Energy Department's annual outlook. Heating oil and propane customers, followed by natural gas, will see the biggest savings compared to last year. Electricity prices are expected to remain flat, but costs should be lower thanks to warmer weather. Here are the Energy Department's predictions for average heating costs for the winter by fuel between Oct. 1 and March 31.

Natural Gas

Number of U.S. households: 58.9 million

This winter's projection: $578

Savings from last year: $64

Electricity

Number of U.S. households: 46.2 million

This winter: $930

Savings: $30

Heating oil

Number of U.S. households: 6.3 million

This winter: $1,392

Savings: $459

Propane

Number of households: 5.6 million

This winter: $1,437

Savings: $322