Water and Sewage Prices in Hesse Vary Significantly - Hesse's water and wastewater pricing reveals stark regional disparities over 20 years
Water and wastewater costs in Hesse have shifted over the past two decades. A new analysis reveals varying pricing models and regional differences across 421 municipalities. While some areas saw price drops, most experienced steady increases between 2005 and 2025.
The average drinking water price in Hesse reached €2.59 per cubic meter in 2025. However, costs varied widely, with the lowest at €0.96 and the highest at €6.69 per cubic meter. Only 46 municipalities charged solely based on actual consumption, while the rest included fixed fees.
Wastewater charges showed even greater differences, ranging from €1.30 to €6.99 per cubic meter. The combined cost of water and wastewater was lowest in Frankfurt am Main at €3.80 per cubic meter. In contrast, the Werra-Meißner and Hersfeld-Rotenburg districts had the highest combined rate of €7.09 per cubic meter.
Pricing models for wastewater also differed by location. Some municipalities used fixed fees, while others based charges on rainfall, surface water, or treatment costs. Over 20 years, drinking water fees rose by an average of 1.5% annually, and wastewater charges increased by 0.6% each year. Costs climbed in 394 municipalities but fell in 26.
Local conditions played a key role in fee structures. Factors such as settlement size, terrain, soil type, and water sources all influenced pricing. These variations led to significant differences in what residents paid across the region.
The study highlights how water and wastewater pricing in Hesse depends on location and local policies. With most municipalities seeing gradual increases, residents face differing costs based on where they live. The findings also show that fixed fees remain common, even as some areas adjust charges based on usage or environmental factors.
