New Research: The Hidden Health Impacts of Unaffordable Water in Detroit
Socio-Demographic Correlates of Household Water Consumption in Detroit: Implications for Human Health
Water affordability is more than a financial issue. It is a matter of public health, equity, and human dignity.
A new research report developed in collaboration with We the People of Detroit, the University of Michigan, and Michigan State University examines how rising water costs affect Detroit households, including the difficult choices residents make to maintain access to an essential resource.
Drawing on household surveys and community focus groups in East and Southwest Detroit, the study reveals how water unaffordability forces families to restrict essential water use, make tradeoffs between household necessities, and navigate financial and emotional stress. The findings also highlight how larger households, families with children, and residents managing chronic health conditions face heightened challenges.
Key Findings
Among households participating in the study:
38–40% had water bills considered unaffordable based on their household income.
62% reported conserving water as much as possible because of the expense.
88% of households with more than two members spent over 4.5% of their income on water.
65% of households with certain chronic health conditions reported conserving water because of cost.
50% did not trust that the water entering their homes was safe.
Moving Beyond Temporary Assistance
The report underscores the need for lasting, systemic solutions that address the root causes of water unaffordability. Its recommendations include income-based water rates, equitable infrastructure investment, stronger public health protections, and greater transparency and accountability in water service delivery.
The research reinforces a fundamental principle at the heart of We the People of Detroit's work: Access to clean, safe, affordable water should never depend on a household's ability to pay.
Explore the full report to learn more about the relationship between water affordability, health, structural inequity, and the policy changes needed to ensure clean, safe, affordable water for everybody.
Published July 2026 | We the People of Detroit, University of Michigan, and Michigan State University
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