Fixed vs. variable natural gas rates in Georgia
A fixed plan locks the gas price per therm for a contract term. A variable plan can change that price from month to month. Neither guarantees the lowest total bill: usage, service charges, delivery charges and contract terms also matter.
For residential customers choosing a marketer in Atlanta Gas Light's service area. Other service areas may have different options.
What changes between the two?
| Feature | Fixed rate | Variable rate |
|---|---|---|
| Gas price per therm | Set for the agreed term. | Can change each month. |
| Monthly bill | Still varies with usage and other charges. | Varies with usage, rate changes and other charges. |
| Contract flexibility | Check the term and early termination fee. | Check cancellation and switching terms; do not assume there are no fees. |
| Main tradeoff | Price certainty, but you may need to wait for renewal or pay a fee to change plans. | Exposure to both price decreases and increases. |
Compare the total cost, not just the advertised rate
Bring your recent bill when you compare offers. The gas charge is usage in therms multiplied by the price per therm. Add the marketer's service charge, delivery charges, taxes and any other applicable fees to understand the total.
For example, a 10-cent-per-therm difference changes the gas charge by $5 at 50 therms. A $5 difference in monthly service charges could offset that amount. This is an illustration, not a current offer or an estimate of your full bill.
The estimated bills shown in comparisons use stated assumptions. Your own usage and Atlanta Gas Light demand factor can produce a different result. Ask a marketer for a quote using your usage and delivery information.
Before choosing or switching a plan
- Check your current contract. Find its end date, renewal terms and any early termination fee.
- Match the offer to your situation. Check new-customer restrictions, service area, credit terms and required discounts.
- Use comparable costs. Compare the same usage, contract length and fee assumptions across marketers.
- Look beyond price. Review billing options, deposits and customer service information.
- Confirm enrollment details. Ask the marketer about the final rate, start date and terms before committing.
Which plan should you choose?
If you value knowing your gas price per therm for a set period, compare fixed plans and their contract terms. If you consider a variable plan, decide whether you are comfortable with monthly price changes and review the current rate regularly. Historical prices provide context; they do not predict future rates.
Use the rate-type and duration filters on the Georgia natural gas plan comparison to explore offers. For questions about bills or switching, visit our natural gas FAQs.
Sources and further reading
Georgia PSC: Selecting a natural gas marketerGeorgia PSC: Gas marketers pricing comparisonGuide reviewed October 22, 2026. Confirm current offers and terms directly with the marketer.