Effective fuel cell operation requires the optimization of the water content of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) such that to meet targets for performance, freeze start, durability and reliability. In this work we present models for predicting the MEA water content that are used to provide input into the design of operating strategies of fuel cell stacks. The measurements of MEA water content during fuel cell operation, stack purging after shutdown, or natural cooling after shutdown are in good agreement with the model results.