How can I find out average utility bills in a different area?

[MCsMom]

I am trying to figure out a budget for the Irvine CA area, I have never lived in CA in my life though.  I can search for rents, but how do I find out about utilities for a house or condo?  Any other differences I should look at in particular? Or BTDT advice?

Thanks

[eirual]

You may want to call the utility companies and just ask for a ball park figure. 

[mumkimum]

I've been told that you can call the utility company and ask for the utility costs for a specific address (say you're buying a house - you can call and ask for their utility costs over the past year).  

If you aren't looking that specifically right now, you might be able to find a realtor who'd be able to give you an idea of those costs or a good landlord *might* know too.  Some cost of living calculators do take utility costs into account as well, but that'd likely be a bit less specific and more generic (therefore less helpful for guessing a budget).