Water affordability issues show up differently in different places. Lower-income households served by relatively well-resourced utilities often struggle to pay for water services along with other basic needs. Frontline communities—those experiencing the ‘first and worst’ impacts of climate change—face challenges accessing basic water services.
Water affordability is a growing problem across the US, reaching critical levels in many areas. According to EPA, as of 2024, basic water services were unaffordable for 12-19 million households nationwide. WaterNow’s Affordability Guide covers customer assistance programs, how distributed infrastructure can support community affordability goals, special issues facing frontline communities, and expanding utility capacity to advance affordability through partnerships.
