San Antonio Water System proposes rate hike that could raise average bills to $75

Proposed increases over 4 years would fund $3 billion in capital improvements

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:09am

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A minimalist illustration composed of overlapping triangles and circles in shades of blue, representing the complex economic factors behind rising water rates.As San Antonio grapples with the rising costs of maintaining its water systems, a proposed rate hike could significantly impact household budgets in the region.San Antonio Today

The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) is proposing a series of rate increases over the next four years that could raise the average customer's monthly bill from just under $57 to over $75 by 2029. The proposed 7% annual increases are intended to help fund more than $3 billion in capital improvements to SAWS' water and wastewater systems.

Why it matters

As one of the largest water utilities in Texas, SAWS' rate hike proposal reflects the growing costs of maintaining and upgrading aging water infrastructure to meet rising demand. The proposed increases could significantly impact household budgets in San Antonio, raising concerns about affordability, especially for low-income residents.

The details

Under the SAWS proposal, rates would increase by around 7% each year over the next four years. This would result in the average monthly bill rising from just under $57 currently to over $75 by 2029, a roughly 32% increase. SAWS says the rate hikes are necessary to fund more than $3 billion in capital improvements to its water and wastewater systems.

  • SAWS is proposing the rate increases in increments between now and 2029.
  • The SAWS board is expected to vote on whether to approve the proposal at a meeting next month.
  • If approved by the board and City Council, SAWS officials hope to begin the rate changes by July 1, 2026.

The players

San Antonio Water System (SAWS)

One of the largest water utilities in Texas, responsible for providing water and wastewater services to the city of San Antonio and surrounding areas.

Gina Ortiz Jones

Mayor of San Antonio and a member of the SAWS board, who has stated that many of the proposed investments are necessary to keep up with demand and maintain the city's water infrastructure.

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What they’re saying

“I think much of this we just don't really have a choice in having to make these investments, given the state of some of this equipment, but also the necessary investments to keep up with demand.”

— Gina Ortiz Jones, Mayor of San Antonio, SAWS board member

What’s next

City Council will make the final decision on the SAWS rate hike proposal this summer. If approved, the rate changes are expected to begin on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

SAWS' proposed rate increases highlight the growing costs of maintaining and upgrading aging water infrastructure in cities like San Antonio, which must balance the need for critical investments with the impact on household budgets. The outcome of this proposal will have significant implications for the affordability of water services in the region.