District of Columbia Water Quality Report
6 cities tested · Average grade: B · 671K people served
Live Water Alerts for District of Columbia →Latest water news in District of Columbia
Recent reporting on District of Columbia drinking water — boil-water advisories, regulatory action, and infrastructure events.
District of Columbia water quality overview
District of Columbia's drinking water quality is good overall, with an average score of 76.8 out of 100 across 6 cities tested. The median score is 82.2, serving a total population of 670,925 residents. 83% of cities earned an A or B grade, indicating broadly strong water quality infrastructure across the state. PFAS "forever chemicals" were detected in 1 of 6 cities tested (17%). All detected levels remain within current EPA limits. The state relies on a mix of water sources: 5 cities use groundwater while 1 draw from surface water such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Issues to watch in District of Columbia
Explore contaminants in District of Columbia
More contaminants tested in District of Columbia
Top industrial water polluters in District of Columbia
Industrial polluters nearby
The 10 facilities reporting the most pounds released to surface water in District of Columbia, 2023.
Total reported releases to surface water: 1,826 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) |
|---|---|---|
FORT TOTTEN READY MIX CONCRETE WASHINGTON, DC20011 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 1,750 |
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS DALECARLIA WTP WASHINGTON, DC20016 | Ammonia | 76 |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
How District of Columbia cities scored
Water quality across District of Columbia
Each dot is a city, colored by its water quality grade. Size reflects population served. Click any city to view its full water report.
6 cities in District of Columbia
| # | City | Grade | Score | Population | Violations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fort Wingate | A- | 86.3 | 800 | 9 |
| 2 | Fort Wingate | A- | 86.3 | 800 | 9 |
| 3 | Salem | B+ | 83.4 | 900 | 45 |
| 4 | Ft. Wingate Elementary School | B+ | 82.2 | 550 | 58 |
| 5 | Ft. Wingate Elementary School | B+ | 82.2 | 550 | 58 |
| 6 | Washington | F | 40.1 | 667K | 106 |
Browse District of Columbia by ZIP code
Look up water quality by ZIP code to find the systems serving your area.
View all District of Columbia ZIP codes →Frequently asked questions about District of Columbia's water
Is District of Columbia's tap water safe to drink?
District of Columbia's water quality varies by city. The statewide average grade is B (76.8/100). 83% of cities scored an A or B, while 17% received a D or F. Check your specific city for detailed results.
Which District of Columbia cities have the best water quality?
The top-rated cities are Fort Wingate (A-), Fort Wingate (A-), Salem (B+). These cities scored highest based on violation history, lead levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Which District of Columbia cities have the worst water quality?
The lowest-rated cities are Washington (F), Ft. Wingate Elementary School (B+), Ft. Wingate Elementary School (B+). We recommend residents in these areas consider water filtration and review their city's specific contaminant data.
How many District of Columbia cities have PFAS in their water?
1 out of 6 cities tested positive for PFAS "forever chemicals" (17%). All detected levels are currently within EPA limits.