Is Urbana, IL Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C+, with 21 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
66.4/100
waterverge.com Urbana, IL — Water Quality Report
Urbana's drinking water received a grade of C+ (66.4 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 15,125 residents using purchased ground water.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. PFAS testing under UCMR 5 found no detectable forever chemicals.
The system has 41 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 21 remain unresolved.
What to know about Urbana's water
Urbana ranks #771 out of 891 cities in Illinois for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Urbana purchases its water from a regional wholesaler, meaning quality depends on both the supplier's treatment and the local distribution system's condition.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 1.33 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.
The system has seen 17 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Urbana, IL water safe to drink?
Urbana's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C+ (66.4/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 10 water systems serve approximately 15,125 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Urbana
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Urbana's water quality assessment. Grade: C+ (66.4/100).
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS, Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3230). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Urbana's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Urbana's water system has 41 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 21 remain unresolved. 17 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Champaign County has experienced 1 federally declared disaster since 2005. 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 Boneyard Creek Below 6Th Street, Boneyard Creek, Saline Branch Above 1700E, Copper Slough.
Where does Urbana's water come from?
Urbana's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 10 water systems serving approximately 15,125 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Boneyard Creek Below 6Th Street (river), Boneyard Creek (river), Saline Branch Above 1700E (river), Copper Slough (river).
What Urbana residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Urbana'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 ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Urbana
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Urbana, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 3 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
GUARDIAN WEST URBANA, IL61802 | Nickel And Nickel Compounds | 3 | 0.9 mi |
SAFETY-KLEEN SYSTEMS URBANA (URB) URBANA, IL61802 | — | — | 1.8 mi |
FLEX-N-GATE URBANA, IL61802 | — | — | 0.6 mi |
ALDRICH-APL LLC URBANA, IL61802 | — | — | 2.4 mi |
EMULSICOAT INC URBANA, IL61802 | — | — | 0.4 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Flood & disaster history
Champaign County has experienced 1 federally declared disaster since 2005. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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 |
| 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. | 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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)
See how Urbana compares by contaminant
Explore where Urbana ranks among all Illinois cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Urbana's water comes from
Urbana 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 Urbana'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 state ownership and serves approximately 15,125 people through 10 water systems.
Water bodies near Urbana
Urbana is located near 4 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Urbana
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| U OF I-CHAMPAIGN | IL0195500 | 13,000 | GWP |
| ILUR LIBERTY COMMONS MHP LLC | IL0195400 | 865 | GWP |
| ILUR WOODS EDGE MHP LLC | IL0195360 | 373 | GWP |
| WOODLAND ACRES MHC | IL0195310 | 230 | GWP |
| ILUR PORTFOLIO 5-SURBANA ESTATES MHP LLC | IL0195390 | 209 | GWP |
| ILUR PORTFOLIOS - CARRIAGE ESTATES LLC | IL0195350 | 115 | GWP |
| EHLERS MHP | IL0195645 | 112 | GW |
| COUNTRY VIEW ESTS MHP | IL0195625 | 97 | GW |
| ILUR PORTFOLIO 5 - WILSON MHP LLC | IL0195370 | 62 | GWP |
| ILUR PORTFOLIO 5 - TRAILSIDE MHP LLC | IL0195380 | 62 | GWP |
How Urbana compares
Full Illinois rankings →Urbana's score of 66.4/100 is above the average of 56/100 among major Illinois cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Illinois rankings →About Urbana, IL
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Urbana's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Champaign
Frequently asked questions
Is Urbana, IL tap water safe to drink?
Urbana's water quality earned a grade of C+ (66.4/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #771 out of 891 cities tested in Illinois.
What contaminants are in Urbana's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). No PFAS compounds were detected. 41 violations are on record.
How is Urbana'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 Urbana?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Urbana's water come from?
Urbana's water is sourced from Purchased ground water. The city has 10 water systems serving approximately 15,125 residents.
Is Urbana's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Urbana 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 41 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 Urbana's water compare to other cities?
Urbana ranks #771 out of 891 cities in Illinois (better than 13% of state cities) and #11373 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.