Is Alexandria, VA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B+ — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
82.6/100
waterverge.com Alexandria, VA — Water Quality Report
Alexandria's drinking water received a grade of B+ (82.6 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,146 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 4.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 45 violations on record, including 9 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved.
What to know about Alexandria's water
Alexandria ranks #131 out of 230 cities in Virginia for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Alexandria relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
As a small community water system, Alexandria may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Alexandria, VA water safe to drink?
Alexandria's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (82.6/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,146 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Alexandria
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Alexandria's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (82.6/100).
Contaminants: 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, cis-1,2-Dichloroethylene, Xylenes, Total.
Contaminants: Nitrate-Nitrite.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Alexandria's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Alexandria's water system has 45 total violations on record, including 9 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved.
Where does Alexandria's water come from?
Alexandria's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 3,146 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Potomac River (river), Northwest Branch Anacostia River (river), Beaverdam Creek (river), Anacostia River (stream), Hickey Run (river).
What Alexandria residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Alexandria's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Alexandria
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Alexandria, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 958 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
VIRGINIA CONCRETE SHIRLINGTON PLANT ARLINGTON, VA22206 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 327 | 1.8 mi |
VIRGINIA CONCRETE EDSALL ROAD PLANT SPRINGFIELD, VA22151 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 295 | 4.7 mi |
VIRGINIA CONCRETE FALLS CHURCH PLANT FALLS CHURCH, VA22043 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 260 | 7.7 mi |
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DALECARLIA WTP WASHINGTON, DC20016 | Ammonia | 76 | 8.3 mi |
TITAN VIRGINIA READY-MIX LLC-SPRINGFIELD PLANT SPRINGFIELD, VA22151 | Lead And Lead Compounds | 0 | 5.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Alexandria
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- WASHINGTON NAVY YARD6.5 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtMontgomery County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Alexandria's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 4.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 11.40 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 11.400 mg/L (1996)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Alexandria compares by contaminant
Explore where Alexandria ranks among all Virginia cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Alexandria's water comes from
Alexandria's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 3,146 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Alexandria
Alexandria is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Alexandria
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| WAVERLY, TOWN OF | VA3183950 | 2,640 | GW |
| WHITLEY PARK CONDOMINIUMS | MD0150101 | 256 | SWP |
| TAUXEMONT | VA6059750 | 250 | GW |
How Alexandria compares
Full Virginia rankings →Alexandria's score of 82.6/100 is on par with the average of 85/100 among major Virginia cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Virginia rankings →About Alexandria, VA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Alexandria's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Sussex
Frequently asked questions
Is Alexandria, VA tap water safe to drink?
Alexandria's water quality earned a grade of B+ (82.6/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #131 out of 230 cities tested in Virginia.
What contaminants are in Alexandria's water?
Lead was measured at 4.0 ppb (90th percentile). 45 violations are on record.
How is Alexandria's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Alexandria?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Alexandria's water come from?
Alexandria's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 3,146 residents.
What health violations has Alexandria's water system had?
Alexandria has 9 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2020. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 4 violations remain unresolved.
Is Alexandria's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Alexandria uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 45 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Alexandria's water compare to other cities?
Alexandria ranks #131 out of 230 cities in Virginia (better than 43% of state cities) and #6862 out of 15744 cities nationally (56th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.