Miami, Florida Water Quality Report
Population: 442,241 | Last Updated: 1/14/2024
Overall Water Quality Grade
Based on compliance rates, contaminant levels, and treatment effectiveness
Water Sources
Miami receives its drinking water from one primary source:
Biscayne Aquifer
100%Groundwater
Shallow limestone aquifer beneath Miami-Dade County, recharged by rainfall and Everglades
Detected Contaminants
All contaminants listed below are within legal limits, but some may exceed health guidelines.
| Contaminant | Detected Level | Legal Limit | Health Goal | Status | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 72 ppb | 80 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | → stable |
| Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) | 52 ppb | 60 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | → stable |
| Lead | 3.2 ppb | 15 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | → stable |
| Radium (226 + 228) | 3.5 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L | 0.43 pCi/L | Above Health Goal | → stable |
| Nitrate | 1.4 ppm | 10 ppm | 0.14 ppm | Above Health Goal | → stable |
Comparison with Florida State Average
Lead Compliance
2.0 points above state average
Bacterial Compliance
1.0 points below state average
Chemical Compliance
2.0 points below state average
Overall Score
1.0 points below state average
Water Quality Trends
Overall water quality score over the past 5 years
Water quality has improved by 1.0 points since 2019
Contamination History
Saltwater Intrusion Concerns
Rising sea levels increasing risk of saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifer
Resolution:
Enhanced monitoring network, well field management optimization, exploring alternative sources
Main Break Boil Water Notices
Several water main breaks led to precautionary boil water notices in affected areas
Resolution:
Infrastructure improvements, pipe replacement program accelerated
Frequently Asked Questions - Miami Water Quality
Is Miami tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Miami-Dade water meets all federal and state drinking water standards. The county operates three major treatment plants and conducts extensive testing to ensure safety. However, the water is very hard due to limestone geology.
Why is Miami water so hard?
Miami's water comes from the Biscayne Aquifer, which flows through limestone rock. This naturally adds calcium and magnesium, resulting in very hard water (averaging 225 mg/L). While safe to drink, many residents use water softeners for household use.
What is being done about saltwater intrusion?
Miami-Dade is actively addressing saltwater intrusion through enhanced monitoring, strategic well management, and exploring alternative water sources. Climate change and sea level rise make this an ongoing priority for the county.
Why does Miami water taste different than other cities?
Miami's groundwater source and high mineral content give it a distinct taste compared to cities using surface water. The water undergoes lime softening treatment which also affects taste. The water is safe, but some residents prefer filtered or bottled water for taste preferences.
Should I be concerned about disinfection byproducts?
Miami's TTHMs and HAA5 levels are below federal limits. These byproducts form when chlorine (needed for disinfection) reacts with organic matter. The county uses optimized treatment to minimize these while maintaining necessary disinfection.
Nearby Water Utilities
Compare water quality in nearby cities:
Hialeah, FL
Miami Beach, FL
Coral Gables, FL
Kendall, FL
Utility Information
Water Provider
Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department
Contact Information
Customer Service: 305-665-7477
Emergency: 305-665-7477
Data Disclaimer
This water quality report is compiled from publicly available data and annual water quality reports. For the most current information, please contact your local water utility or visit their official website. Last updated: 1/14/2024.