Water Bill Estimator
Select your water company region and household size to get an estimated annual and monthly water bill for 2026/27. See how your estimate compares to the UK national average and get a clear cost breakdown.
Tip! — If you have a water meter your bill is based on actual usage. Select "Metered" and enter your household size for the most accurate estimate. Not sure? Check your latest water bill.
| Water Company / Region | |
| Billing Type |
| Period | Estimated Bill | vs UK Average (£639/yr) |
|---|---|---|
| Run calculation to see breakdown | ||
How to Read Your Water Bill
A plain-English guide to how water bills are calculated, why they vary by region, and what you can do to reduce yours.
Read Guide →How to Use the Water Bill Estimator
Step-by-Step
- Select your water company — this is determined by where you live, not a matter of choice. Check your water bill or the water company finder on the Ofwat website if you are unsure.
- Choose your billing type — select "Regional average" if you are unmetered or unsure, or "Metered" to estimate based on your household size.
- Select your household size (metered only) — more people means more water use and a higher metered bill.
- Click Estimate My Bill — see your estimated annual and monthly bill, how it compares to the UK average, and a regional comparison chart.
Why Water Bills Differ So Much Across the UK
Unlike energy, you cannot switch water supplier in the UK. Your water company is determined entirely by where you live, and bills vary dramatically between regions — from around £162 per year for Portsmouth Water customers to over £743 for South West Water customers in Devon and Cornwall.
These differences reflect each company's infrastructure costs, geography, investment programmes, and the density of the population they serve. Ofwat sets limits on what companies can charge through a five-year price review process.
2026/27 Bill Changes
From April 2026, the national average combined water and sewerage bill rose to £639 per year — up £33 (5.4%) from 2025/26. This follows a much larger £123 rise in 2025/26, which was the first year of Ofwat's five-year investment programme. The largest individual increases in 2026/27 were at United Utilities (+£57), Southern Water (+£55), Hafren Dyfrdwy (+£54) and Severn Trent (+£52).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average water bill in the UK in 2026?
The national average combined water and sewerage bill in England and Wales for 2026/27 is £639 per year, or around £53.25 per month, according to Water UK. This is up from £606 in 2025/26.
Why do water bills vary so much by region?
Water companies are regional monopolies regulated by Ofwat. Bills vary because each company has different infrastructure needs, geography, and investment plans. Rural and coastal areas with older pipe networks tend to have higher bills. You cannot switch water company, so where you live determines your bill.
Does household size affect my water bill?
Yes — if you have a water meter. Metered customers pay for what they use, so more people means more water and a higher bill. If you are unmetered, your bill is based on your property's rateable value regardless of how many people live there.
Which water company has the highest bills?
South West Water has the highest average combined bill in England at around £743 per year for 2026/27, reflecting the remote geography and infrastructure costs of serving Devon and Cornwall. Welsh Water (Dŵr Cymru) and Anglian Water also have above-average bills.
How can I reduce my water bill?
If you have fewer people in your home than bedrooms, getting a water meter is often the most effective step — it replaces a fixed rateable value charge with one based on actual use. Other options include fixing drips, fitting a low-flow shower head, running appliances on eco settings, and checking whether you qualify for the WaterSure scheme or your company's social tariff.