Gross rent is calculated for renter-occupied units rented for cash rent (with the exclusions noted above for rent). It represents the contract rent plus the average monthly cost of utilities (water, electricity, gas, ) and fuels, to extent that these are paid for by the renter (or paid for by a relative, welfare agency, or friend) in addition to the rent. Gross rent thus eliminates differentials which result from varying practices with respect to the inclusion of utilities and fuel in contract rent.
In 1960, respondents were to indicate if they paid for electricity, gas, water or fuels (oil, coal wood, kerosene) in addition to rent; and if yes, to indicate the estimated average monthly dollar cost for electricity, gas, water, and the total yearly cost for fuel. In 1970, respondents were to answer similarly but further specify if they did not use particular utilities or fuels.

Gross rent is calculated from this information. Gross rent is tabulated by several distributions; for example, less than $30, $30-39... $90-99, $100-119, $120-149, $150-199, $200-249, $250-299, $300 or more. (Census basic records carry dollar amounts ' of gross rent up to $999.)
Total, median, and average gross rent are calculated.