By SCWS Team
Published February 17, 2026 · 10 min read
The choice between well water and municipal water isn't just about cost—it's about control, quality, responsibility, and lifestyle. Both have significant advantages and drawbacks depending on your situation.
| Factor | Well Water | Municipal Water |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ~$20-$30 (electricity) | $50-$150+ |
| Upfront Cost | $10,000-$30,000+ | $0-$5,000 (connection) |
| Quality Control | You're responsible | Utility handles |
| Chemicals | None (unless you add) | Chlorine, fluoride, etc. |
| Power Outages | No water without power | Usually maintains service |
| Independence | Complete | Dependent on utility |
Advantages of Well Water
No Monthly Water Bills
The most obvious benefit: once your well is drilled and equipped, you don't pay for the water itself. You'll pay electricity to run the pump ($20-$40/month for typical household use), but that's far less than municipal rates. San Diego area water rates average $80-$150/month for typical households—and rising.
Chemical-Free Water
Well water isn't treated with chlorine, chloramines, fluoride, or other chemicals used in municipal systems. For those sensitive to or concerned about these additives, well water offers a chemical-free alternative. Many well owners describe their water as "fresher" tasting.
Independence and Control
You own your water source. No rate increases from utilities. No water use restrictions (in most cases—some areas have groundwater regulations). No reliance on municipal infrastructure that can fail or become contaminated.
Often Better Mineral Content
Well water often contains beneficial minerals from the aquifer. Many well owners appreciate the natural mineral content, though some may find the water "harder" than they prefer.
Disadvantages of Well Water
Upfront Costs
Drilling a well costs $10,000-$30,000+ depending on depth and local conditions. Add pump equipment, pressure tank, and installation, and you're making a significant upfront investment. It typically takes 8-15 years to "break even" compared to municipal water bills.
Maintenance Responsibility
When something breaks, you fix it—and pay for it. Pump replacements ($1,500-$3,000), water treatment systems ($1,000-$5,000), and regular maintenance are your responsibility. You also need to test water quality regularly and address any issues.
Power Dependency
Most well pumps require electricity. No power = no water (except what's stored in your pressure tank). This requires planning: generators, battery backups, or stored water for emergencies. Municipal water usually maintains pressure during outages.
Potential Quality Issues
Well water can contain naturally occurring contaminants: arsenic, radon, manganese, bacteria, nitrates. Unlike municipal systems that continuously treat water, you must test and address these issues yourself. Some areas have challenging water quality requiring significant treatment.
Advantages of Municipal Water
Continuous Treatment and Testing
Municipal water systems are required to treat water to EPA standards and conduct regular testing. You receive annual water quality reports. When issues arise, the utility is responsible for fixing them.
Reliability
Modern municipal systems are highly reliable, with redundant infrastructure. You rarely think about your water supply because it just works. Power outages typically don't affect water service (though pressure may reduce).
No Maintenance Responsibility
Everything from source to meter is the utility's responsibility. You don't worry about pump failures, water treatment, or testing. Pay your bill and you're done.
Disadvantages of Municipal Water
Ongoing Costs
Water bills never end, and rates typically increase annually. Heavy users (irrigation, pools, large families) can face bills of $200-$400/month or more. Rate structures often penalize higher usage.
Treatment Chemicals
Chlorine, chloramines, and fluoride are commonly added. Some people dislike the taste or have concerns about these chemicals. Home filtration can address this but adds cost.
Usage Restrictions
During droughts, you may face mandatory water restrictions limiting outdoor use, watering schedules, etc. Well owners typically have more freedom (though groundwater regulations exist in some areas).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is well water cheaper than city water?
Long-term, usually yes. You pay for drilling and equipment upfront ($10,000-$30,000+), but have no monthly water bills. After 10-15 years, most well owners have "broken even" compared to city water bills of $50-$150/month. However, you're responsible for maintenance and repairs, which adds variable costs.
Is well water safer than city water?
Neither is inherently safer—it depends on the specific source. City water is continuously treated and tested but contains chlorine and may have contamination incidents. Well water avoids treatment chemicals but can contain natural contaminants like arsenic, bacteria, or nitrates if not properly maintained and tested. Both require attention to quality.
What happens to well water during a power outage?
Unlike city water (which often maintains pressure during outages), most well pumps require electricity. Without power, you lose water. Solutions include: battery backup systems, generators, or a hand pump for emergencies. The pressure tank provides some reserve—usually 10-30 gallons depending on size.
Can I switch from city water to a well?
Usually yes, if local regulations allow and conditions are favorable for drilling. You'll need a drilling permit, professional site assessment, and may need to disconnect from city water (some jurisdictions don't allow both). Cost is typically $10,000-$30,000 for drilling and complete system installation. Check local groundwater availability before committing.
Considering a Private Well?
We can help evaluate your property for well drilling feasibility, provide cost estimates, and answer questions about living with a private well. Service throughout San Diego and Riverside Counties.
Call (760) 463-0493