San Diego residents are bracing for a significant jump in utility costs, as the city’s Public Utilities Department has proposed a steep increase in water and sewer rates over the next four years. If approved, water bills could rise by more than 62%, while sewer rates could climb 31%—adding to the growing cost of living in one of California’s most expensive cities.
The increases would begin in January 2026 and continue through 2029:
Water Rates:
- January 2026: +14.7%
- January 2027: +14.5%
- January 2028: +11.5%
- January 2029: +11%
Sewer Rates:
- January 2026: +6%
- January 2027: +6%
- January 2028: +8%
- January 2029: +8%
Combined, these hikes would bring the average monthly water and sewer bill for a typical single-family home to approximately $180—up from current levels, though still slightly below the countywide average.
Why the Increases?
The city cites multiple cost pressures behind the proposed hikes: aging infrastructure, rising labor and energy costs, and an overwhelming reliance on imported water. San Diego imports about 85% of its water from Northern California and the Colorado River—both of which have become more expensive due to drought, environmental restrictions, and delivery costs.
Additionally, the city is investing in major infrastructure improvements, including the Pure Water program, which aims to recycle wastewater into drinking water and eventually provide up to 50% of the city's supply by 2035.
Public Pushback and Oversight
While city officials argue that the hikes are necessary to maintain service and avoid larger future spikes, many residents are voicing frustration. With already high housing costs and new monthly trash collection fees taking effect, some San Diegans say they feel financially stretched.
City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera has called for greater scrutiny of the plan, stating that he is not yet convinced that ratepayers are being offered the lowest possible rates. A key independent consultant, however, affirmed that the city’s projections are fiscally sound, leaving little room for alternatives.
The proposal has passed through the City Council’s Environment Committee and is scheduled for a public hearing and final vote on September 30. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting or submit public comment to express their concerns or support.
What’s Next?
If approved, the first rate increases would begin January 1, 2026. City officials maintain that while the changes are steep, they are necessary to secure San Diego’s water future and modernize its infrastructure.
For now, all eyes are on City Hall as San Diego residents weigh the tradeoffs between long-term sustainability and short-term affordability.
