Is Jim Thorpe, PA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C- — but Lead and Copper were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
59.1/100
waterverge.com Jim Thorpe, PA — Water Quality Report
Jim Thorpe's drinking water received a grade of C- (59.1 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 5,127 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 17.3 ppb (90th percentile), which exceeds the EPA action level of 15 ppb. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 130 violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 10 remain unresolved.
What to know about Jim Thorpe's water
Jim Thorpe ranks #266 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Jim Thorpe 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.
Lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb, which typically indicates aging lead service lines or lead solder in the distribution system. An NSF 53-certified filter is strongly recommended for drinking and cooking water.
The system has seen 7 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Jim Thorpe, PA water safe to drink?
Jim Thorpe's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C- (59.1/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 5,127 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Jim Thorpe
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Jim Thorpe's water quality assessment. Grade: C- (59.1/100).
Contaminants: TTHM.
Contaminants: Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), TTHM.
Contaminants: Interim Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3356). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3340). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Jim Thorpe's water supply.
Exceeds EPA action level. Lead service line replacement and point-of-use filtration recommended.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Jim Thorpe's water system has 130 total violations on record, including 16 health-based violations. 10 remain unresolved. 7 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Carbon County has experienced 8 federally declared disasters since 1969. 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 Lehigh River At Lehighton, Beltzville Lake Near Parryville, Pohopoco Cr Bl Beltzville Dam Nr Parryville, Aquashicola Creek At Palmerton, Lehigh River At Walnutport.
Where does Jim Thorpe's water come from?
Jim Thorpe's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 5,127 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Lehigh River At Lehighton (river), Beltzville Lake Near Parryville (lake), Pohopoco Cr Bl Beltzville Dam Nr Parryville (river), Aquashicola Creek At Palmerton (river), Lehigh River At Walnutport (river).
What Jim Thorpe residents can do
Recommended: NSF 53-certified pitcher or under-sink filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Jim Thorpe'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.
Jim Thorpe'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
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Jim Thorpe
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Jim Thorpe, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 0 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
BLUE RIDGE PRESSURE CASTINGS LEHIGHTON, PA18235 | Copper | 0 | 3.8 mi |
WESTCHESTER PLASTICS LLC NESQUEHONING, PA18240 | — | — | 3.2 mi |
PANTHER CREEK POWER OPERATING LLC NESQUEHONING, PA18240 | — | — | 5.3 mi |
WEATHERLY CASTING & MACHINE CO WEATHERLY, PA18255 | — | — | 6.6 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Jim Thorpe
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.
- TONOLLI CORP5.5 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtCarbon County is currently in D1 (moderate 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.
Flood & disaster history
Carbon County has experienced 8 federally declared disasters since 1969. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Jim Thorpe'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. | 17.3 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 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. | 1.59 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.590 mg/L (1993)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Jim Thorpe compares by contaminant
Explore where Jim Thorpe ranks among all Pennsylvania cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Jim Thorpe's water comes from
Jim Thorpe'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 5,127 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Jim Thorpe
Jim Thorpe is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Jim Thorpe
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| JIM THORPE BOROUGH WATER EAST | PA3130043 | 2,853 | GW |
| JIM THORPE BOROUGH WATER WEST | PA3130044 | 2,274 | SW |
How Jim Thorpe compares
Full Pennsylvania rankings →Jim Thorpe's score of 59.1/100 is above the average of 49/100 among major Pennsylvania cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Pennsylvania rankings →About Jim Thorpe, PA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Jim Thorpe's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Carbon
Frequently asked questions
Is Jim Thorpe, PA tap water safe to drink?
Jim Thorpe's water quality earned a grade of C- (59.1/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #266 out of 560 cities tested in Pennsylvania.
What contaminants are in Jim Thorpe's water?
Lead was measured at 17.3 ppb (90th percentile). 130 violations are on record.
How is Jim Thorpe'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 Jim Thorpe?
Yes — lead levels exceed the EPA action level of 15 ppb. We recommend an NSF 53-certified filter or reverse osmosis system. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Jim Thorpe's water come from?
Jim Thorpe's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 5,127 residents.
What health violations has Jim Thorpe's water system had?
Jim Thorpe has 16 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2023. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 10 violations remain unresolved.
Is Jim Thorpe's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Jim Thorpe 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 130 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 Jim Thorpe's water compare to other cities?
Jim Thorpe ranks #266 out of 560 cities in Pennsylvania (better than 53% of state cities) and #12209 out of 15744 cities nationally (23th percentile). The grade of C- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.