This paper investigates the impact of public-private partnerships (PPPs) on urban wastewater treatment efficiency (UWTE) in China. Using data from 1303 PPP projects in 283 cities from 2014-2019, the study employs data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Tobit regression models. Results indicate that cities utilizing PPPs, particularly those with feasibility gap subsidies, competitive procurement, privatized operation, and non-demonstration projects, exhibit significantly higher UWTE. However, the effects are moderated by economic development level, marketization, and climate.