England and Wales Water Bills Rise £5.40 in 2026

Households across England and Wales will face higher water bills starting April 1, 2026, with the average annual charge rising by £5.40 to £639, according to the water industry body Water UK. The increase, which equates to about 45 pence per month, varies by region and supplier, reflecting differing needs for infrastructure upgrades amid ongoing concerns over affordability and environmental performance.

The national average masks significant regional differences. For instance, customers of United Utilities in northwest England, including Greater Manchester, will see the largest hike among combined water and wastewater providers, with bills up £57 to £660. In contrast, Thames Water, serving much of Greater London, has the smallest increase for such services at £3, bringing averages to £658. Water-only suppliers show even wider variation: Affinity Water in the central region faces a 13 percent rise of £31 to £266, while Portsmouth Water customers will pay £13 more, reaching £162. Other notable increases include £52 for Severn Trent Water to £587 and £55 for Southern Water to £759. Full details by company, published by Water UK, highlight these disparities, with percentage changes...