Is Phoenix, AZ Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper, Chromium-6 and 3 more were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
37.5/100
waterverge.com Phoenix, AZ — Water Quality Report
Phoenix's drinking water received a grade of F (37.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 17 water systems serve approximately 1,722,513 residents using surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 2.5 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 3 PFAS compounds in the water supply.
The system has 1269 violations on record, including 59 health-based violations. 198 remain unresolved.
Latest water news in Phoenix
Recent reporting on Phoenix, AZ drinking water — boil-water advisories, violations, and infrastructure events.
What to know about Phoenix's water
Phoenix ranks #285 out of 292 cities in Arizona for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 54.00 µg/L, above California's 10 µg/L limit. There is no federal MCL, but the EPA is reviewing evidence linking long-term exposure to cancer risk.
As a major metropolitan system serving over 1.7M residents, Phoenix faces large-scale infrastructure challenges including aging pipes and the complexity of treating water across a vast distribution network.
The system has seen 210 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Phoenix, AZ water safe to drink?
Phoenix's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (37.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 17 water systems serve approximately 1,722,513 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Phoenix
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Phoenix's water quality assessment. Grade: F (37.5/100).
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule, Revised Total Coliform Rule, Groundwater Rule.
Contaminants: Public Notice, Revised Total Coliform Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Groundwater Rule, Consumer Confidence Rule, Chlorine.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4203). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Phoenix's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
The "Erin Brockovich" chemical. There is no federal MCL, but California has set a limit of 10 µg/L. Reverse osmosis filtration is effective at removing hexavalent chromium.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 3 PFAS compounds in Phoenix's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Phoenix's water system has 1,269 total violations on record, including 59 health-based violations. 198 remain unresolved. 210 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Maricopa County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1966. 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 Salt River.
Where does Phoenix's water come from?
Phoenix's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 17 water systems serving approximately 1,722,513 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Salt River (river).
What Phoenix residents can do
Recommended: Reverse osmosis system. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Phoenix'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.
Phoenix'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 Phoenix
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Phoenix, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
COLUMBUS CHEMICAL INDUSTRIES INC. EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP P PHOENIX, AZ85009 | — | — | 9.2 mi |
WEST DIRECT OIL #41 PHX PHOENIX, AZ85009 | — | — | 6.8 mi |
CAVCO INDUSTRIES INC DURANGO PHOENIX, AZ85009 | — | — | 9.9 mi |
ALLIED TUBE & CONDUIT PHOENIX, AZ85009 | — | — | 6.7 mi |
PRO PETROLEUM LLC - WEST PHOENIX TERMINAL PHOENIX, AZ85009 | — | — | 9.5 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtMaricopa 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.
Flood & disaster history
Maricopa County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1966. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Phoenix'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. | 2.5 | 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. | 1.90 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | 160.000 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | 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. | 0.006 | 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. | 0.014 | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 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. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.900 mg/L (1994)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Phoenix compares by contaminant
Explore where Phoenix ranks among all Arizona cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Phoenix's water comes from
Phoenix's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 1,722,513 people through 17 water systems.
Water bodies near Phoenix
Phoenix is located near 1 notable water body. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving Phoenix
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHOENIX CITY OF | AZ0407025 | 1,695,000 | SW |
| EPCOR - NORTH EAST AGUA FRIA | AZ0407531 | 14,723 | GW |
| ROSE VALLEY WATER COMPANY | AZ0407065 | 6,202 | GW |
| FEDERAL CORRECTION INSTITUTION | AZ0407700 | 1,500 | GW |
| OAK CREST OF MANVEL | TX0200586 | 1,020 | GW |
| ADJC ADOBE MOUNTAIN SCHOOL | AZ0407307 | 680 | GW |
| GASLIGHT SQUARE MOBILE HOME PARK | TX0710009 | 675 | GWP |
| ORANGEWOOD MOBILE HOME PARK | AZ0407682 | 500 | GW |
| PARADISE MHP | IL0310010 | 460 | SWP |
| MICHIGAN TRAILER PARK | AZ0407621 | 400 | GW |
| WILLOW MANOR MOBILE HOME PARK | TX0200328 | 375 | GW |
| OCEAN MOBILE HOME PARK | TX0360023 | 347 | GW |
| EAGLE VIEW MHP | PA7010055 | 230 | GW |
| CONWAY COMMONS MOBILE HOME PARK | MI0040126 | 165 | GW |
| GUERNSEY LAKE MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY | MI0040046 | 100 | GW |
| BEARDSLEY WATER COMPANY 3 | AZ0407511 | 96 | GW |
| 67 AVE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION | AZ0407280 | 40 | GW |
How Phoenix compares
Full Arizona rankings →Phoenix's score of 37.5/100 is on par with the average of 41/100 among major Arizona cities. It outscores 2 of 10 nearby cities. 8 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Arizona rankings →Compare Phoenix water quality
Head-to-head reports vs other large US cities — grades, lead, PFAS, and Superfund / TRI proximity.
- Phoenix vs Tucson, AZ
- Phoenix vs Austin, TX
- Phoenix vs Baltimore, MD
- Phoenix vs Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix vs Las Vegas, NV
About Phoenix, AZ
Wikipedia →Phoenix is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Arizona. With over 1.6 million residents at the 2020 census, Phoenix is the fifth-most populous city in the United States and the most populous state capital. The Phoenix metropolitan area, with an estimated 5.19 million residents, is the tenth-most populous metropolitan area in the U.S. and the most populous in the Mountain states and Southwest. Phoenix is the county seat of Maricopa County in the Salt River Valley and Arizona Sun Corridor and, with an area of 517.9 square miles, is the largest city by area in Arizona and 11th-largest city by area in the United States.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Phoenix's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Maricopa
Frequently asked questions
Is Phoenix, AZ tap water safe to drink?
Phoenix's water quality earned a grade of F (37.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #285 out of 292 cities tested in Arizona.
What contaminants are in Phoenix's water?
Lead was measured at 2.5 ppb (90th percentile). 3 PFAS compounds were detected. 1269 violations are on record.
How is Phoenix'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 Phoenix?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Phoenix's water come from?
Phoenix's water is sourced from Surface water. The city has 17 water systems serving approximately 1,722,513 residents.
What health violations has Phoenix's water system had?
Phoenix has 59 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in December 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 198 violations remain unresolved.
Why does Phoenix have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
3 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Phoenix'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. While detected, current levels are within EPA limits. An activated carbon filter can further reduce exposure.
How does Phoenix's water compare to other cities?
Phoenix ranks #285 out of 292 cities in Arizona (better than 2% of state cities) and #15397 out of 15744 cities nationally (2th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.