The Charleston Water System has revealed plans for significant rate increases starting in January 2026. In addition to the already scheduled 7% rate hike, residents can expect an additional 3% increase, resulting in a total 10% increase for water bills in the new year.
Reasons Behind the Rate Hike
The added 3% rate hike is being implemented to help fund the relocation of water infrastructure for the Lowcountry Rapid Transit system. This project, which will create a new transportation network for buses, cyclists, and pedestrians, requires the water system to move roughly 21 miles of water mains that are currently in the way of planned stormwater drains.
The total cost of this relocation is expected to be around $64 million, which will be paid for by water customers. The additional 3% increase will last until 2056, with residents paying this extra amount every year.
Mike Saia, a spokesperson for the Charleston Water System, expressed that while the rapid transit project is beneficial for the community, it comes at a high cost. “The folks who pay our bills are ultimately going to have to pay back the roughly $64 million it’s going to cost to simply move our water mains out of the way of this project,” Saia said.
Impact on Local Residents
For the average Charleston resident, the new hikes will mean higher water bills. In 2024, the typical water bill for a City of Charleston resident was about $25.40 per month. The added 3% increase will add approximately 80 cents to water bills each month over the next 30 years.
While the hike is intended to fund necessary infrastructure changes, it comes at a time when many residents are already facing financial challenges. The Charleston Water System currently shuts off water for about 200 people every day due to non-payment, and the additional costs may add to the burden for those struggling to keep up with their bills.
David Horrey, a recent downtown Charleston resident, expressed his concern about the cumulative effect of these hikes. He already noticed an increase in his water bill and fears that the combined rate hikes will make living in Charleston unaffordable. “If the rate continues to increase, I’m going to look for a place in the country,” said Horrey. “I have family in the country. It’s better than decreasing your hygiene to save water.”
A Long-Term Commitment
The Charleston Water System’s plan is to implement the 3% increase for the next 30 years, ensuring that the $64 million needed for the relocation project will be covered. This means residents will see incremental increases in their water bills over a long period, though the specific final rate will be determined at the Charleston Water System Board of Commissioners meeting in November 2025.
Advice for Residents
Officials are advising residents to prepare for the upcoming hikes by budgeting ahead. The Charleston Water System has a bill calculator tool on its website, allowing customers to estimate how the rate increases will affect their bills.
For many, managing these additional costs will require careful planning, especially as they already balance the rising costs of rent and other utilities.
The Charleston Water System’s proposed rate increases, set to begin in January 2026, are primarily designed to fund infrastructure changes related to the Lowcountry Rapid Transit system. However, the additional financial burden may be challenging for many residents, particularly those already struggling to pay their bills. With these changes expected to last until 2056, Charleston residents are encouraged to plan ahead for the upcoming hikes.
