Seven in ten over 50s struggling with water bills

2nd April 2025

New research by SunLife has found that seven in ten over 50s are struggling with their water bills.

The average water bill is set to rise by an average of between £79 and £224 with 71% are already spending more on their household bills than they were a year ago, while 61% are spending more on their weekly shop, which is already putting a strain on their household budgets.

The data showed that almost half (44%) say they have had to cut back on eating out and takeaways, four in ten (38%) have had to cut back on their hobbies, and more than a quarter (28%) have curbed spending on the gym and sports clubs. Personal spending has also been cut back, as over 50s try and balance increases in food, transport and energy costs, with 34% spending less on clothes – rising to 40% of women – and 38% spending less on hairdressing, barbers and beauty treatments. Rising costs have also forced over 50s to cut back on their usual generosity – 31% have spent less on charity donations while 20% have had to cut back on gifts for their kids and grandkids.

With water bills rising by up to 47% in some regions, and by an average of 26% and food inflation at an five month high, the impact on over 50s could be significant, with the vast majority (63%) say that further rises to energy bills, food, and fuel is their biggest financial concern.

Mark Screeton, CEO at SunLife said “According to our research, most over 50s have had to spend more on essentials like food, energy costs and transport, meaning there is less left for personal expenses.

“And while arguably, some of these expenses are luxuries – such as eating out and takeaways – others are vital for good mental and physical health, such as hobbies and fitness – so it is worrying that so many people are having to make such big sacrifices.”