Knowing the average water bill in Phoenix, AZ is helpful for identifying whether your systems are in good shape. In other words, a bill far above the average rate indicates that your water-handling appliances may need some attention. In this post, we’ll dive into the data and tell you what to do if your water bill seems excessive.
Average Water Bill in Phoenix, AZ
According to a 2019 report, the average Phoenix family spends $41.69 on water per month. Since then, the municipal government has approved a 6% hike which works out to an additional $2.37 per month for the average customer.
Phoenix residents pay a monthly service charge based on their meter size. That fee covers six units of water (4,488 gallons) from October to May and 10 units (7,480) from June to September. Here are the monthly service charges as of 2020:
| Meter Size | Within City Core | Outside City Core |
| 5/8″ | $4.64 | $6.96 |
| 3/4″ | $6.03 | $9.05 |
| 1″ | $8.81 | $13.22 |
| 1 1/2″ | $15.77 | $23.66 |
| 2″ | $24.13 | $36.20 |
| 3″ | $43.62 | $65.43 |
| 4″ | $71.46 | $107.19 |
| 6″ | $141.06 | $211.59 |
If your water consumption goes beyond what’s included in the monthly charge, you’ll pay the following rate per 748 gallons:
| Time of Year | Within City Core | Outside City Core |
| December to March | $3.20 | $4.80 |
| April to November | $3.73 | $5.60 |
| June to September | $4.09 | $6.14 |
Phoenix residents also pay an environmental charge of $0.62 per 748 gallons of water used.
These rates are quite reasonable, especially when you consider that we live in a desert! Throughout the United States, the average American family spends roughly $70.39 a month on water costs. So we’re not doing too bad at $41.69. You’ll appreciate that in light of the very high electricity costs in Phoenix.
With that said, water rates can vary wildly throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. This includes plumbing in Cave Creek, Glendale, Scottsdale, Mesa, etc. It all comes down to which region you live in and what entity owns the rights to service it. Still, the city-wide numbers are a pretty good baseline.
Why Were Rates Increased?
Rates are increasing in order to account for shrinkage in the Colorado River, which is one of the major sources for water in Phoenix. The rate increase is intended to pay for infrastructure costs that will redirect water from other sources to regions that previously relied on the Colorado River.
Average Water Bill in Arizona
Wondering how Phoenix stacks up against Arizona as a whole in terms of water costs? Fairly well, considering the average water bill in Arizona is $39.25 (at 7,500 gallons). So you’ll pay a bit more living in Phoenix but it’s not exorbitant by any means.
How to Lower Your Water Bill in Phoenix
If you’re paying much more than the average water bill in Phoenix, here are some tips for getting things under control.
#1. Install a Water Softener
Water softeners are absolutely essential in Phoenix. We have some of the most mineral-rich water in the United States, which forces your appliances (including your water heater) to work much harder than they should. You’ll also have to shower longer and scrub harder on those dishes. Check out this post for more information about why hard water is so detrimental to life in Phoenix. Then, check out this article for more information about installing water softeners.
#2. Maintain Your Water Softener
If you already have a water softener and your bill is still high, it’s worth looking at its condition. Make sure you’re using the right water softener salt – and refilling the brine tank as specified in the softener’s manual.
If you’re still having issues, get in touch with us at American Home Water & Air. We’ve been installing and repairing water softeners for more than 30 years.
#3. Inspect Your Appliances
Your water softener is far from the only appliance that can contribute to exorbitant water bills in Phoenix. Other appliances you should inspect include:
- Your Furnace Humidifier.
If your furnace humidifier is leaking or overly active, it will almost certainly lead to a sudden spike in your monthly water bill.
- Your Dishwasher
Even the smallest dishwasher leak can cause a drastic rise in your water bill (plus, not to mention, significant water damage to your floors, cabinetry, and walls).
- Your Water Heater
Water heaters tend to last roughly 15 years with proper maintenance. Eventually, however, they typically start to corrode and leak from the inside, which will send your water bill through the roof. As mentioned earlier, a buildup of sediment can also force your water heater to work harder than it needs to. In addition to installing a water softener (or inspecting your old one), consider doing a water heater flush. This will get rid of any sediment that’s built up in your heater over the years.
- Your Toilets
Toilets are another common culprit when it comes to high water bills given how much water they use. If one of your toilets is leaking, that can be enough to increase your water bill substantially. You should also consider upgrading to more efficient toilets if you’ve been using the same ones for decades. Check out this article for a breakdown on how substantially efficient toilets can reduce your bill.
#4. Remember That Your Bill Will Fluctuate Seasonally
If it’s July and you’re wondering why your bill is much higher than it was in October, there could be a very simple reason – seasonality. Remember, the average water bill in Phoenix figures we quoted earlier take into account the seasonal pricing that utility companies charge. So if the spike coincides with with a change in season, it may be completely normal.
#5. Make Sure Your Meter is Accurate
Water meters can malfunction occasionally. If your search for leaks and other issues does not reveal anything out of the ordinary, make note of the level on your water meter. Then, fill a large container with water and ensure that the increase indicated on your meter is accurate based on the container’s size. If it’s not, your meter may be malfunctioning and you should contact the city for an inspection.
#6. Remember the Basics
Sometimes your water bill is on the higher side simply because you’re wasting water! Here are some basics to keep in mind.
- Keep your showers as short as possible. Even a four minute reduction can save you money!
- Turn the water off while brushing your teeth and shaving. The water should only be flowing when your toothbrush or razor is under it!
- Use a dishwasher. Contrary to popular belief, dishwashers are actually much more efficient with water than you could be if you’re washing by hand. Also, be sure to only run full loads.
Average Water Bill in Phoenix: Conclusion
The average water bill in Phoenix is roughly $41.69. This is well below the national average of $70.39 per month. If your bill is much higher than that, you should first consider seasonality and then ask your neighbors what they’re paying. Bills can vary drastically throughout the year and in various parts of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. If seasonality and location are not to blame, take a look at the ideas we’ve outlined above for bringing your water bill back down to earth.
Did this help? Also check out How Long Does A Furnace Last and our many service areas for HVAC in Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Mesa, etc.
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