Chandler to Raise Utility Rates Starting in 2027

City residents will face a $6 monthly increase in total utility costs beginning this January.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Utilities

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring an industrial pipe and waste bin, representing municipal utility rate changes.
The Chandler City Council has approved a 4.5% rate hike for solid waste services, with additional water utility adjustments under review for 2027. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Chandler City Council has approved a 4.5% increase for solid waste services, effective January 2027. Additionally, the council has tentatively supported further rate hikes for water and wastewater services.

Why it matters

These adjustments are designed to address rising operational expenses and fund necessary infrastructure capital needs for the city. The city council move marks a significant shift in the utility cost structure for local residents.

The city approved a 4.5% solid waste fee increase, while tentatively backing a 9% hike for water and a 6.5% increase for wastewater. These changes will result in an average monthly bill increase of $6 per residence.

The players

Chandler City Council

This is the primary governing body responsible for setting local policy and municipal utility rates in Chandler, Arizona.

The details

The Chandler City Council finalized the solid waste increase during a recent meeting to bolster service funding. Proposed rate hikes for water and wastewater remain subject to a final vote scheduled for later this year.

Timeline

  1. August 2026: Budget and policy staff presented the fee increase components.

  2. November 2026: The city council is scheduled to vote on water and wastewater rate increases.

  3. January 2027: New solid waste collection rates will take effect.

Market Landscape

This decision follows the established pattern set by the municipal budget cycle to address long-term capital requirements through rate adjustments. It reflects a broader trend of cities adjusting utility fees to offset rising costs and maintain infrastructure viability.

The average residence in Chandler will see a total monthly utility increase of $6 starting in January. This total is comprised of $3 for water, $2 for wastewater, and $1 for solid waste services.

The takeaway

Homeowners should prepare their household budgets for the anticipated $6 monthly utility hike starting in early 2027. Tracking upcoming council meeting outcomes in November will provide clarity on the final status of the water and wastewater rate proposals.

What happens next

The Chandler City Council is scheduled to hold a final vote on the proposed 9% water rate increase and 6.5% wastewater rate increase in November 2026.

Further reading

For more information on local service management, visit the Utilities section.

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