We use very little water at our homes. At least compared to how much is used elsewhere. Nationwide, the amount of water consumed in our homes is only about 10% of the greater whole.

If you have been paying attention to recent news you have likely heard about the California drought. This story is not new. Growing up in Arizona I was constantly bombarded with dire warnings regarding how California is running out of water because of all the people moving there. Well enough is enough. I can only hear about desert landscaping and composting toilets for so long. The data is free for the asking from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). So let’s take a look.

How much water do Californians use in their desert homes? Consistent with the national average it is a whopping 10.5% of total state water use. So, if The Golden State could halve the showering, lawn watering and pool parties it would barely assist in drought relief.

Typically, it is good practice to avoid pie charts. However, every once in a while, I will make an exception to show a disproportionate contribution to a whole. Here is what California residential water use looks like compared against everything else.

California Residential Water Use