Is Miami Beach, FL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C+ — but Chlorate was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
66.8/100
waterverge.com Miami Beach, FL — Water Quality Report
Miami Beach's drinking water received a grade of C+ (66.8 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 100,086 residents using purchased ground water.
Lead levels were measured at 7.0 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. UCMR 5 testing detected 10 PFAS compounds, with levels exceeding EPA maximum contaminant levels in the water supply.
The system has 26 violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 9 remain unresolved.
What to know about Miami Beach's water
Miami Beach ranks #236 out of 388 cities in Florida for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Miami Beach purchases its water from a regional wholesaler, meaning quality depends on both the supplier's treatment and the local distribution system's condition.
Of particular concern: PFAS "forever chemical" levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels. These synthetic compounds don't break down naturally and require specialized filtration such as reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.15 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
The system has seen 14 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Miami Beach, FL water safe to drink?
Miami Beach's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C+ (66.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 100,086 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Miami Beach
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
PFAS levels exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or activated carbon filtration recommended.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Miami Beach's water quality assessment. Grade: C+ (66.8/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: TTHM, Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4834). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3622). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Miami Beach's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
PFAS "forever chemicals" exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. Reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filtration strongly recommended.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 10 PFAS compounds in Miami Beach's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Miami Beach's water system has 26 total violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 9 remain unresolved. 14 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Miami-Dade County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. 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 C-8 Canal, C-7 Canal, Snapper Crk Canal Upstream Of S-22, Snapper Creek, Miami Canal Upstream Of S-26.
Where does Miami Beach's water come from?
Miami Beach's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 100,086 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include C-8 Canal (stream), C-7 Canal (river), Snapper Crk Canal Upstream Of S-22 (stream), Snapper Creek (stream), Miami Canal Upstream Of S-26 (stream).
What Miami Beach residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Miami Beach'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.
Miami Beach'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 ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Miami Beach
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Miami Beach, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
KINGSPAN INSULATION (FORMERLY DYPLAST PRODUCTS LLC) OPA LOCKA, FL33054 | — | — | 8.8 mi |
INVINCIBLE BOAT CO OPA LOCKA, FL33054 | — | — | 9.8 mi |
CEMEX DOWNTOWN MIAMI MIAMI, FL33136 | — | — | 3.2 mi |
TITAN FLORIDA-BUENA VISTA II RMC PLANT MIAMI, FL33136 | — | — | 3.2 mi |
SENTRY INDUSTRIES INC MIAMI, FL33142 | — | — | 6.7 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Miami Beach
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.
- CONTINENTAL CLEANERS4.1 mi
- AIRCO PLATING CO6.7 mi
- ANODYNE INC9.0 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtMiami-Dade County is currently in D3 (extreme 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
Miami-Dade County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 2016. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Miami Beach'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. | 7.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | 0.089 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | 0.005 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | 0.015 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | 0.004 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | 0.011 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | 0.028 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | 0.006 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.008 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | 0.024 | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Over MCL |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | 0.027 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Miami Beach compares by contaminant
Explore where Miami Beach ranks among all Florida cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Miami Beach's water comes from
Miami Beach purchases its water supply from a regional wholesale provider rather than treating raw water directly.
Water quality depends on both the wholesaler's treatment standards and the condition of Miami Beach's local distribution pipes and storage facilities.
Purchased water systems are common in suburban areas and smaller communities that lack the infrastructure for independent treatment.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 100,086 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Miami Beach
Miami Beach is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Miami Beach
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIAMI BEACH, CITY OF | FL4130901 | 100,000 | GWP |
| INDIAN CREEK VILLAGE | FL4130662 | 86 | GWP |
How Miami Beach compares
Full Florida rankings →Miami Beach's score of 66.8/100 is above the average of 50/100 among major Florida cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Florida rankings →About Miami Beach, FL
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Miami Beach's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Miami-Dade
Frequently asked questions
Is Miami Beach, FL tap water safe to drink?
Miami Beach's water quality earned a grade of C+ (66.8/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #236 out of 388 cities tested in Florida.
What contaminants are in Miami Beach's water?
Lead was measured at 7.0 ppb (90th percentile). 10 PFAS compounds were detected. 26 violations are on record.
How is Miami Beach'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 Miami Beach?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. PFAS compounds exceed EPA limits — a reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter is recommended.
Where does Miami Beach's water come from?
Miami Beach's water is sourced from Purchased ground water. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 100,086 residents.
What health violations has Miami Beach's water system had?
Miami Beach has 1 health-based violation on record. The most recent violation was recorded in March 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 9 violations remain unresolved.
Is Miami Beach's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Miami Beach 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 26 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.
Why does Miami Beach have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
10 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Miami Beach's water supply during UCMR 5 testing. PFAS contamination often originates from proximity to military installations (AFFF firefighting foam), airports, industrial manufacturing sites, or wastewater treatment facilities. Some levels exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels — a reverse osmosis or NSF-certified activated carbon filter is strongly recommended.
How does Miami Beach's water compare to other cities?
Miami Beach ranks #236 out of 388 cities in Florida (better than 39% of state cities) and #11318 out of 15744 cities nationally (28th percentile). The grade of C+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.