Desert Water Agency customers to see rate changes in 2027; how much could bills increase?

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Desert Water Agency customers could see changes to their monthly water bills beginning next year, as the agency prepares to implement another phase of its five-year rate plan.

The new drinking water and wastewater rates are scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027, with changes expected to appear on customers' February bills.

The rate changes are part of a five-year plan approved by the agency's Board of Directors on June 16, 2026. The upcoming adjustments represent the fourth phase of that plan.

According to Desert Water Agency, the rate changes are intended to help cover the costs of providing water and wastewater services while supporting infrastructure improvements and long-term reliability.

But with household expenses continuing to put pressure on families across the Coachella Valley, the upcoming adjustments raise questions about how much more customers could be paying.

News Channel 3 is getting answers from Desert Water Agency about what is driving the rate changes, how much the average household could expect to pay, and what resources are available to customers struggling with their bills.

The agency also offers a bill-assistance program called Help2Others, which provides eligible customers with financial assistance toward their water bills.

News Channel 3 is speaking with Desert Water Agency officials and looking into what these changes could mean for your wallet.

Watch the full report tonight at 6.