Water plays a central role in creating sustainable cities. Past focus has been on centralised potable water supplies, wastewater treatment and drainage. However, focus is shifting towards localised fit-for purpose supplies, restoring natural water flows, minimising water-related energy, and achieving liveability through water. New conceptual frameworks help us understand this broader context. The urban water metabolism framework gives a big-picture perspective and comprehensive account of all water flows to generate water performance indicators. Quantification of the energy- and carbon-intensity of urban water (life cycle assessment and marginal abatement cost curves) helps identify the role of water management in decarbonising cities. Frameworks for understanding water-related liveability help us consider water efficiency in terms of the broader functions water delivers, instead of just per unit supplied.