SAWS Rates Rise in 2027: What Customers Should Know
Households that receive San Antonio Water System service should expect a modest change to monthly water and sewer bills in 2027. San Antonio City Council approved a SAWS rate adjustment on Oct. 8, and the utility says the average residential bill will increase by less than $4 per month beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
The new rates apply to water, wastewater and irrigation consumption on or about Jan. 1. SAWS says customers should begin receiving bills that reflect the new rates on or about Feb. 1, 2027. The actual change for any household will depend on water use, service type and other billing details, so the average increase should not be treated as a fixed amount for every customer.
Why SAWS Says the Rate Increase Is Needed
The approved adjustment is tied to SAWS' broader Water Forward infrastructure plan. The utility says the multi-year program is intended to replace aging water and sewer mains, modernize treatment facilities, install emergency backup power and fund other system improvements across San Antonio and Bexar County.
SAWS also says its strong bond ratings help reduce borrowing costs for those capital projects. In its Oct. 9 announcement, the utility said Moody's, S&P Global and Fitch again confirmed strong ratings, which can lower interest costs when SAWS finances major infrastructure work.
The infrastructure program is systemwide. The rate adjustment supports the broader infrastructure program.
How Residents Can Estimate Their Own 2027 Bill
Because household water use varies, residents can use the SAWS residential rate calculator to estimate the effect of the new rates on their own account. Customers who need help understanding a bill can contact SAWS customer service at 210-704-SAWS (7297).
Income-qualified customers can also review SAWS Uplift, the utility's affordability assistance program. SAWS lists 210-233-CARE (2273) for Uplift assistance.
What SAWS Customers Should Watch Next
The key date for customers is Jan. 1, 2027, when the approved rates are expected to begin applying to consumption. The first affected bills are expected around Feb. 1. Residents can review SAWS' official rate information and calculator before then to see how their own usage pattern may change the total.
My Neighborhood News will continue following utility changes that affect SAWS customers.
Johnny Krenek has been connected to community news since childhood, growing up alongside the family business his parents founded—Krenek Printing. Today, he serves as Vice President and lead developer for My Neighborhood News, where he drives the digital experience and supports the team across a variety of technical and operational roles. He is passionate about building tools that help connect neighbors and strengthen communities.
Local business spotlight
Grow your business
where trust already lives.
Let’s introduce your business to the neighbors nearby.
Have a local favorite?
Let’s make an introduction.
Leave your email and our team will reach out with ways to promote your business.
Give a local favorite a little love.
Know a business your neighbors should discover? Tell us who they are.
We couldn’t send that just yet. Please try again.
