Less Water, More Risk: Exploring National and Local Water Use Patterns in the U.S.

Abstract

This report aims to more consistently identify, measure, and assess infrastructure’s connection to broader economic priorities at a subnational level, by exploring how water is used at a metropolitan scale. Through several key metrics—including total water use and per capita water use—it provides a new starting point for metro and nonmetro leaders to consider while balancing water efficiency and equity considerations.