Philadelphia Water Customers to See Rate Increases

Philadelphia water customers will see rate increases this fall. The new rates went into effect on Sept. 1, while the second half of the increase is scheduled for September 2026.

According to a City of Philadelphia news release, Philadelphia is implementing a two-year rate hike approved by the Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board and submitted by the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) to maintain stable utility operations and address rising costs for essential water services.

The rate increases aim to support infrastructure maintenance, prevent stormwater pollution, and protect local waterways, while ensuring that the PWD, a not-for-profit entity, does not benefit financially from these rate hikes.

According to the city's statement on the rate increases, Philadelphia water bills consist of four charges — water, sewer, stormwater, and service — that fund various aspects of water safety, infrastructure, and environmental initiatives. Each charge increases alongside the rate adjustments.

Water rates in Philadelphia are determined through public hearings involving residents, the Rate Board, and the Public Advocate, which represents residential and small business customers. This collaborative partnership aims to ensure community participation in setting costs based on the expenses of providing water, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management.

Residents who qualify can access assistance programs such as senior discounts, the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP), and hardship relief, all of which can help lower or eliminate water bills. Applications for these assistance programs are available online.