Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Water Quality Report
Population: 1,584,064 | Last Updated: 1/14/2024
Overall Water Quality Grade
Based on compliance rates, contaminant levels, and treatment effectiveness
Water Sources
Philadelphia receives its drinking water from multiple sources:
Schuylkill River
55%Surface Water
Major river source treated at Baxter Water Treatment Plant
Delaware River
45%Surface Water
Secondary river source treated at Belmont and Queen Lane facilities
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead | 4.8 ppb | 15 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | ↓ improving |
| Total Trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 48 ppb | 80 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | → stable |
| Haloacetic Acids (HAA5) | 32 ppb | 60 ppb | 0 ppb | Below Legal Limit | → stable |
| PFAS (Total) | 8.5 ppt | 20 ppt | 4 ppt | Above Health Goal | ↓ improving |
Comparison with Pennsylvania State Average
Lead Compliance
2.0 points above state average
Bacterial Compliance
2.0 points above state average
Chemical Compliance
1.0 points below state average
Overall Score
2.0 points above state average
Water Quality Trends
Overall water quality score over the past 5 years
Water quality has improved by 3.0 points since 2019
Contamination History
Lead Service Line Concerns
City-wide assessment revealed approximately 50,000 lead service lines
Resolution:
Lead service line replacement program launched, free water testing offered to residents
PFAS Detection in Delaware River
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances detected in Delaware River source water
Resolution:
Enhanced monitoring implemented, treatment optimization ongoing, levels below federal limits
Frequently Asked Questions - Philadelphia Water Quality
Is Philadelphia tap water safe to drink?
Yes, Philadelphia's tap water meets all federal and state drinking water standards. The Philadelphia Water Department conducts over 100,000 water quality tests annually and operates three modern treatment plants to ensure safety.
Where does Philadelphia's water come from?
Philadelphia draws water from two major rivers: the Schuylkill River (55%) and the Delaware River (45%). Both rivers are protected by extensive watershed management programs and treated at state-of-the-art facilities.
What is being done about lead in Philadelphia water?
The water leaving treatment plants contains no lead. Philadelphia has approximately 50,000 lead service lines and offers free water testing, filters to affected residents, and a lead service line replacement program. The city also optimizes corrosion control treatment.
Does Philadelphia test for PFAS?
Yes, Philadelphia monitors for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in both source water and finished drinking water. Current levels are below EPA health advisory levels, and the city continues to monitor and optimize treatment.
How does Philadelphia's water compare to other major cities?
Philadelphia's water quality ranks among the better large city systems in the US, with a B+ grade. The city benefits from relatively clean source rivers, advanced treatment technology, and comprehensive monitoring programs.
Nearby Water Utilities
Compare water quality in nearby cities:
Camden, NJ
Wilmington, DE
Chester, PA
Upper Darby, PA
Utility Information
Water Provider
Philadelphia Water Department
Contact Information
Customer Service: 215-685-6300
Emergency: 215-685-6300
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.