Is Nikiski, AK Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C- — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
59.6/100
waterverge.com Nikiski, AK — Water Quality Report
Nikiski's drinking water received a grade of C- (59.6 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 620 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 484 violations on record, including 9 health-based violations. 18 remain unresolved.
What to know about Nikiski's water
Nikiski ranks #24 out of 79 cities in Alaska for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Nikiski 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, Nikiski may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Nikiski, AK water safe to drink?
Nikiski's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C- (59.6/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 620 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Nikiski
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Nikiski's water quality assessment. Grade: C- (59.6/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Groundwater Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Nikiski'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
Nikiski's water system has 484 total violations on record, including 9 health-based violations. 18 remain unresolved. 3 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Nikiski's water come from?
Nikiski's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 620 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Campbell C Nr Spenard (river), Chester C (river).
What Nikiski residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Nikiski'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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Nikiski'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. | 1.57 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Nikiski compares by contaminant
Explore where Nikiski ranks among all Alaska cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Nikiski's water comes from
Nikiski'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 private ownership and serves approximately 620 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Nikiski
Nikiski is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Nikiski
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIKISHKA BAY | AK2241020 | 470 | GW |
| NIKISKI VILLAGE TC | AK2241088 | 150 | GW |
How Nikiski compares
Full Alaska rankings →Nikiski's score of 59.6/100 is on par with the average of 61/100 among major Alaska cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Alaska rankings →About Nikiski, AK
Wikipedia →Anchorage, officially the Municipality of Anchorage, is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Alaska. With a population of 291,247 at the 2020 census, it contains nearly 40 percent of the state's population. The Anchorage metropolitan area, which includes Anchorage and the neighboring Matanuska-Susitna Borough, had a population of 398,328 in 2020, accounting for more than half the state's population. At 1,706 sq mi (4,420 km2) of land area, the city is the fourth-largest by area in the U.S.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Nikiski's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Kenai Peninsula Borough
Frequently asked questions
Is Nikiski, AK tap water safe to drink?
Nikiski's water quality earned a grade of C- (59.6/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #24 out of 79 cities tested in Alaska.
What contaminants are in Nikiski's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 484 violations are on record.
How is Nikiski'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 Nikiski?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Nikiski's water come from?
Nikiski's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 620 residents.
What health violations has Nikiski's water system had?
Nikiski has 9 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 18 violations remain unresolved.
Is Nikiski's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Nikiski 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 484 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 Nikiski's water compare to other cities?
Nikiski ranks #24 out of 79 cities in Alaska (better than 70% of state cities) and #12167 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.