Water and sewer bills can vary greatly depending on where you live—even within North Atlanta’s suburbs. Here’s a breakdown of what homeowners and renters in Cumming, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Roswell, Suwanee, and Duluth can expect to pay in 2025—and why.
Cumming (Forsyth County)
Forsyth County manages its own water and sewer system, with one of the most structured and transparent tiered systems in Georgia.
- Base water charge: $15.27 per month (includes the first 1,000 gallons). Seniors (62+) receive a reduced rate.
- Tiered usage charges:
- 1,000–6,000 gallons: $4.31 per 1,000 gallons
- 6,000–12,000 gallons: $5.82 per 1,000 gallons
- Over 12,000 gallons: Charges increase significantly
- Sewer service: $17.42 base + $8.42 per 1,000 gallons
- Estimated total monthly bill (7,000 gallons): Around $99
Water and sewer rates are scheduled to rise gradually each year—about 3.5% for water and 5% for sewer—through at least 2028. Most households remain in the lower tiers, keeping bills manageable if usage is conservative.
Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Roswell, Suwanee, and Duluth
These cities are mostly served by Fulton County or Gwinnett County utilities, depending on exact location.
Fulton-Served Cities (Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Roswell)
- Base water charge: Around $10.35 per month
- Water and sewer usage charges: Typically structured by tier, with costs increasing based on volume
- Sewer bills: Often the most expensive component, typically adding $50–80 per month
- Estimated total bill (7,000 gallons): $100–140 per month
Fulton County approved a series of 5% annual rate increases starting in 2023. These increases are applied both to base charges and usage rates. Expect gradual annual bumps through 2027.
Some cities, such as Johns Creek, also charge a separate stormwater utility fee, typically between $2.90 and $14.50 per month depending on lot size and impervious surface area.
Duluth and Suwanee (Primarily Gwinnett County)
- Gwinnett’s rates are generally competitive, with structured tiers and consistent billing.
- Estimated average household bill (7,000 gallons): Around $90–120 per month, depending on conservation habits and home size.
What’s a Fair Bill?
Here’s a quick comparison for a typical household using around 7,000 gallons per month:
| City | Typical Monthly Total |
|---|---|
| Cumming (Forsyth) | $95–105 |
| Johns Creek, Alpharetta | $110–130 |
| Roswell | $100–125 |
| Suwanee, Duluth (Gwinnett) | $90–120 |
These figures can be much lower for single residents or smaller homes staying under 5,000 gallons per month—and significantly higher for large households, homes with irrigation systems, or properties with outdated fixtures.
Tips to Keep Your Bill Down
- Fix leaky faucets and toilets—they waste hundreds of gallons a month
- Install low-flow fixtures and check sprinkler settings
- Water lawns early in the morning or late in the evening
- Check your bill regularly—an unexpected spike could signal a hidden leak
- Inquire about senior discounts or income-based assistance programs
Final Thoughts
Across North Atlanta’s suburban communities, water and sewer bills generally range from $90 to $140 per month for a typical family. Your final cost depends on where you live, how much water you use, and whether your city tacks on stormwater or environmental fees.
Staying mindful of your usage and checking your rates annually can help you stay in the most affordable tier. If your bill feels unusually high, don’t hesitate to contact your utility provider for a breakdown—or even a free usage audit.
