Alaska Water Quality Rankings

Alaska water quality overview

Alaska's drinking water quality is below average overall, with a state average score of 55.4 out of 100 — 18.8 points below the national average of 74.2. The median city score is 50, reflecting how water quality is distributed across the state's 79 ranked cities. 67% of cities scored a D or F, pointing to significant water quality challenges across much of the state. 16 cities did earn an A or B grade, showing that strong systems do exist. PFAS "forever chemicals" were detected in 8 of 79 cities (10%). Of those, 3 cities exceed the 2024 EPA maximum contaminant levels — a health concern requiring action. 1 city has lead levels exceeding the EPA action level of 15 ppb, typically a sign of aging lead service lines or lead solder in older plumbing. Residents in these areas should use an NSF 53-certified filter. 77 cities have recorded health-based violations with the EPA — meaning contaminant levels exceeded safe limits or required testing was missed. Use the table below to find your city's specific record.