Philadelphia water bills rise 7.5% as September rate increase takes effect

Philadelphia’s new water, sewer and stormwater rates took effect Sept. 1, increasing the Philadelphia Water Department’s typical residential monthly bill example from $89.42 to $96.16.

The $6.74 increase represents a 7.5% rise under the new rate schedule. It is an example, not a flat charge for every Philadelphia household.

What the typical bill includes

PWD’s example assumes 430 cubic feet of monthly water use — approximately 3,200 gallons — and a 5/8-inch meter.

Under the rates effective Sept. 1, the example includes:

$33.77 for water usage, including the Tiered Assistance Program rider surcharge
$24.55 for sewer usage, including the TAP rider surcharge
$14.79 for the service charge
$23.05 for stormwater

The total is $96.16, compared with $89.42 under the prior rate schedule. The calculation includes water and sewer usage, the meter service charge, stormwater costs and TAP rider surcharges.

PWD cites service and infrastructure costs

PWD says rates are increasing because the cost of providing services is rising and the department must meet regulatory requirements related to health and safety.

The department also cites the need to replace, improve and modernize an aging water, wastewater and stormwater system. PWD says the rates support operating and infrastructure costs as well as the Tiered Assistance Program, which helps eligible customers maintain service and reduce water-bill debt.

Those are PWD’s stated reasons for the rate change.

Printed bill insert contained an outdated formula

On Sept. 11, PWD issued a correction involving a rate-increase bill insert delivered with paper bills.

The insert showed the outdated water-usage formula “71.22 + 3.59.” PWD said the correct 2026 formula is “73.13 + 5.41.”

The department said the printed formula was not updated to match the new rate schedule, but that the resulting water-usage total was correct. PWD said the formula was corrected in the digital version.

Actual bills will vary

Customers may pay more or less than the typical $96.16 example depending on water use and meter size. Eligible customers may also qualify for assistance through TAP or senior discounts.

PWD says eligible seniors may receive a 25% discount. In the department’s example, a typical senior customer using 300 cubic feet per month has a new discounted total of $58.90.

Customers with questions about their bills or the updated rates can contact the Philadelphia Water Department at (215) 685-6300.

Sources

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