Pennsylvania's Average Water and Sewer Bill

In Pennsylvania, average water rates vary by several different factors. The average cost of water in Pennsylvania is higher than in some other states, due to the large number of people living in the area on a limited water supply. You can calculate the average water bill you are likely to receive if you consider a few key factors.

The average household throughout the entire state uses about 100 gallons of water per day. This translates to a total of about 3000 gallons of water per month. Households with additional people or a higher than average water use, such as daily sprinkler use, will use more. Most households in Pennsylvania do not use more than 5,000 gallons of water per month. This average monthly use is often used per city to determine the average billing cost for each household.

Most cities in Pennsylvania charge for water and sewer costs together. The rates for living inside city limits are typically lower than those for outside the city limits. Rates for 3,000 gallons or less have a slightly higher charger than rates for 4,000 gallons of water in some cases. If you use more than a certain amount of water some cities will also charge an additional fee. Many Pennsylvania cities charge a flat rate no matter how much water you use up to a certain number of gallons.

Most people in Pennsylvania pay between $5 and $8 per 1,000 gallons of water used as of 2011. Some cities, like Pittsburg, charge a flat fee of around $14 or $15 to all customers with the understanding that you will use 1,000 gallons for that amount. Water companies charge additional water used over the initial 1,000 gallons at the $5 to $8 rate. The average household in Pennsylvania pays about $40 for water and $40 for sewage as of 2011. Some cities combine the two charges, and some charge separately for the two conveniences.

Some Pennsylvania cities have other rate factors that can also alter the cost of the average water bill. The time of year, amount of water used in the household, whether you go over the allocated water amount, where you live and any additional city fees will also alter the average cost of water in Pennsylvania. Consult with your local utility office to determine the exact amount you are likely to pay for water.