The High Cost of Hydration: Understanding Your Water Bill in Chicago

As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago's water system is a complex and essential infrastructure that serves millions of residents. The average Chicago water bill is rising, and understanding where the cost goes can be a daunting task. However, with the rise of water affordability concerns, residents are now able to explore options to reduce their bills. Water management stakeholders, including the Chicago Department of Water Management (CDWM), aim to balance providing clean water with controllable rates. While residents debate over sums owed, the truth behind the cost of water service in Chicago remains in the dark.

Breaking Down the Bill

A typical water bill consists of several components, with the total amount charged to residents broken down into usage and infrastructure costs. The main culprits behind increased water fees have been noted to be aging infrastructure, leaks, and outside costs of water production. Economist,Yael Haspel, at the University of Chicago stated: "Wastage is unsustainable and reveals inefficiencies in distribution and possibly misuse of clean water." Chicago Wastewater's collection report shows that nearly 321 million gallons of water were lost through line breaks, leaks and service line breaks in 2020 alone¹. Bill distribution totals of last year alone amount to USD $250 million.