Is Bridgeport, IL 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 ↓
72.4/100
waterverge.com Bridgeport, IL — Water Quality Report
Bridgeport's drinking water received a grade of B- (72.4 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 3,847 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 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 39 violations on record, including 12 health-based violations. 11 remain unresolved.
What to know about Bridgeport's water
Bridgeport ranks #709 out of 891 cities in Illinois for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Bridgeport 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.
The system has seen 12 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Bridgeport, IL water safe to drink?
Bridgeport's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (72.4/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 3,847 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Bridgeport
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Bridgeport's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (72.4/100).
Contaminants: Chlorine, Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Chlorine, Revised Total Coliform Rule, Nitrate.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule, Chlorine.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4819). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4749). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Bridgeport'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
Bridgeport's water system has 39 total violations on record, including 12 health-based violations. 11 remain unresolved. 12 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Cook County has experienced 9 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Lake Michigan, Pullman Creek, Nb Chicago River, Chicago River, Chicago S & S Canal.
Where does Bridgeport's water come from?
Bridgeport's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 3,847 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Lake Michigan (lake), Pullman Creek (river), Nb Chicago River (river), Chicago River (river), Chicago S & S Canal (river).
What Bridgeport residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Bridgeport'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.
Bridgeport's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Bridgeport
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.
- INDIAN REFINERY TEXACO LAWRENCEVILLE4.1 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Cook County has experienced 9 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Bridgeport'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. | 0.0 | 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. | 1.44 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.440 mg/L (2014)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Bridgeport compares by contaminant
Explore where Bridgeport ranks among all Illinois cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Bridgeport's water comes from
Bridgeport'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 3,847 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Bridgeport
Bridgeport is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Bridgeport
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BRIDGEPORT | IL1010100 | 2,572 | GW |
| PETROLIA PWD | IL1015350 | 1,275 | GWP |
How Bridgeport compares
Full Illinois rankings →Bridgeport's score of 72.4/100 is above the average of 56/100 among major Illinois cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Illinois rankings →About Bridgeport, IL
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Bridgeport's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Lawrence
Frequently asked questions
Is Bridgeport, IL tap water safe to drink?
Bridgeport's water quality earned a grade of B- (72.4/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #709 out of 891 cities tested in Illinois.
What contaminants are in Bridgeport's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 39 violations are on record.
How is Bridgeport'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 Bridgeport?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Bridgeport's water come from?
Bridgeport's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 3,847 residents.
What health violations has Bridgeport's water system had?
Bridgeport has 12 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in August 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 11 violations remain unresolved.
Is Bridgeport's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Bridgeport 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 39 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 Bridgeport's water compare to other cities?
Bridgeport ranks #709 out of 891 cities in Illinois (better than 20% of state cities) and #10317 out of 15744 cities nationally (35th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.