[Objective] To explore the interaction between water use and economic growth in order to provide some scientific basis and decision-making reference for the coordinated development of urban water resource utilization and economic growth in China.[Methods] The article based on decoupling theory, use Tapio elastic analysis to research the relationship between water use and economic growth in China's four municipalities from 2001 to 2014.[Results] (1) Water resource utilization and economic growth overall were in a weak state of decoupling. (2) Agricultural water decoupling was better than that of industry. In terms of agricultural water use, Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai cities were strongly decoupled; Chongqing City was in weak decoupling state. For industrial water, Beijing and Shanghai City mainly were in strong decoupling, it was contrary for other two cities. (3) Decoupling state of water use and economic growth in Beijing City was best, followed by Shanghai City, Chongqing City was the worst.[Conclusion] Municipal water environment and economy has not yet reached coordinated and sustainable development. Especially, the development of Chongqing City is facing the greatest pressure, followed by Tianjin City. Beijing and Shanghai City should avoid the negative and weak decoupling development.