Chicago
Is Chicago tap water safe to drink?
Use extra caution — Chicago scores 44/100. This report aggregates EPA drinking water data across 2 local systems in Chicago. We found 0 total violations (0 unresolved).
Real-Time Environment
Live: 02:45 PM☀️ No active precipitation. Rainfall can impact surface water turbidity and pollutant runoff in Chicago.
Water Quality Impact
🛡️ Home Water Treatment Needs
Should you invest in filtration or softening for your home in Chicago?
Expert Advice
Given the safety margin, a Carbon Block or sediment filter is recommended to improve taste and remove trace particulates.
Buying a Filter?
Should you buy a water purifier in Chicago? See our analysis.
Baby Formula Safety
Is Chicago tap water safe for infants? Critical safety guide.
Homebuyer's Perspective
For those looking to relocate to Chicago, water quality is a key factor in long-term property maintenance. With a score of 44/100, we recommend budgeting for high-quality point-of-entry filtration systems to protect your home's value.
Health & Family Safety
Residents should monitor Manganese levels. Pregnant women and families with young children should consult the specific EPA health goals listed below.
View Health Risk Glossary →Score Breakdown for Chicago
*Scores are calculated using weighted EPA monitoring data from the past 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago tap water safe to drink?
Use extra caution — Chicago scores 44/100.
How many water systems serve Chicago?
Chicago is served by 2 public water systems in our latest EPA-backed dataset.
How can I check water quality for my exact address in Chicago?
Use the WaterQ search tool to look up your ZIP code and view nearby systems, contaminant levels, and recent violations for Chicago.
What is the water quality score for Chicago?
The water quality score for Chicago is N/A out of 100, based on EPA contaminant data, violation history, and testing results for all serving water systems.
What are the top contaminants in Chicago?
The top contaminants detected in Chicago include Manganese, Fluoride, Chromium (Total). View detailed information on our contaminants page.
Chicago Water Quality Summary
Chicago, IL receives a water quality score of 44/100 (Grade F) based on EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) compliance data for 8 public water systems serving the area.
Chicago's water quality score is below the national average, indicating a history of EPA violations or elevated contaminant levels. Residents are encouraged to check their specific water system report and consider additional filtration.
Water quality data is sourced from the U.S. EPA SDWIS database and updated quarterly. Learn about our scoring methodology →
Key Contaminants
Water Systems Serving Chicago (2)
Check Your Specific Address
Water quality can vary by neighborhood in Chicago.
Related
Quick compare in Illinois
Compare Chicago water quality: View all states · Contaminant library · How we score water quality