Philadelphia
Is Philadelphia tap water safe to drink?
Mostly yes — Philadelphia scores 82/100. This report aggregates EPA drinking water data across 2 local systems in Philadelphia. We found 0 total violations (0 unresolved).
Real-Time Environment
Live: 04:30 PM☀️ No active precipitation. Rainfall can impact surface water turbidity and pollutant runoff in Philadelphia.
Water Quality Impact
🛡️ Home Water Treatment Needs
Should you invest in filtration or softening for your home in Philadelphia?
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 Philadelphia? See our analysis.
Baby Formula Safety
Is Philadelphia tap water safe for infants? Critical safety guide.
Homebuyer's Perspective
For those looking to relocate to Philadelphia, water quality is a key factor in long-term property maintenance. The high safety score (82/100) suggests lower risk for plumbing corrosion and appliance scaling.
Health & Family Safety
Residents should monitor Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) levels. Pregnant women and families with young children should consult the specific EPA health goals listed below.
View Health Risk Glossary →Compliance Record for Philadelphia
Based on EPA SDWIS violation records and contaminant test results for all water systems serving Philadelphia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Philadelphia tap water safe to drink?
Mostly yes — Philadelphia scores 82/100.
How many water systems serve Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is served by 2 public water systems in our latest EPA-backed dataset.
How can I check water quality for my exact address in Philadelphia?
Use the WaterQ search tool to look up your ZIP code and view nearby systems, contaminant levels, and recent violations for Philadelphia.
What is the water quality score for Philadelphia?
The water quality score for Philadelphia is 82 out of 100, based on EPA contaminant data, violation history, and testing results for all serving water systems.
What are the top contaminants in Philadelphia?
The top contaminants detected in Philadelphia include Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), Tetrachloroethylene (PCE), Nitrate. View detailed information on our contaminants page.
Philadelphia Water Quality Summary
Philadelphia, PA receives a water quality score of 82/100 (Grade B) based on EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) compliance data for 2 public water systems serving the area.
Philadelphia's water quality is above the national average, with strong compliance records and low contaminant levels. Residents generally receive clean, safe tap water that meets EPA standards.
Philadelphia's score of 82 is 9 points above the Pennsylvania state average of 73, and above the nationwide average of roughly 78/100 across all U.S. states.
As a major metro area in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia relies on water systems that operate within the Mid-Atlantic region, characterized by the Appalachian foothills and older industrial infrastructure. For residents and prospective homebuyers, this environment delivers a water supply that achieves a generally favorable and solid quality rating, demonstrating reliable management of these regional challenges. While the overall quality is respectable, the presence of older industrial infrastructure in the area means that property owners should stay informed about the local distribution networks.
Water quality data is sourced from the U.S. EPA SDWIS database and updated quarterly. Learn about our scoring methodology → Read our Pennsylvania water quality rankings report →
Key Contaminants
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Water Systems Serving Philadelphia (2)
Check Your Specific Address
Water quality can vary by neighborhood in Philadelphia.
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Compare Philadelphia water quality: View all states · Contaminant library · How we score water quality