Arkansas Water Quality Rankings 2026

All 20 cities ranked by water quality score

State Average83/100

Cities Ranked

Pine Bluff

Best City (97/100)

Little Rock

Lowest Score (69/100)

85%

Above National Avg

Grade Distribution

How Arkansas's 20 cities are distributed by water quality grade

A Range

40% of cities

B Range

55% of cities

C Range

5% of cities

0% of cities

Cities with good water quality (B or better)85%

17 out of 20 cities meet or exceed a B grade for water quality

All 20 Arkansas Cities Ranked

Sorted by water quality score from best to worst. Click any city for a detailed water quality report.

Rank	City	Score	Grade	Population	Top Concern
1	Pine Bluff	97/100	A+	41,253	None identified
2	Paragould	95/100	A+	29,908	None identified
3	West Memphis	95/100	A+	24,656	None identified
#4	Jacksonville	89/100	A-	28,442	None identified
#5	Benton	86/100	A-	36,360	None identified
#6	Springdale	86/100	A-	84,161	None identified
#7	Hot Springs	85/100	A-	38,697	None identified
#8	Sherwood	85/100	A-	32,731	None identified
#9	Bentonville	84/100	B+	54,909	None identified
#10	Jonesboro	84/100	B+	78,576	None identified
#11	Russellville	84/100	B+	29,318	None identified
#12	Fayetteville	82/100	B+	93,949	None identified
#13	Fort Smith	81/100	B+	89,142	None identified
#14	Rogers	80/100	B+	71,000	None identified
#15	Texarkana	76/100	B	29,864	None identified
#16	Conway	75/100	B	66,776	None identified
#17	North Little Rock	75/100	B	64,591	None identified
#18	Bella Vista	72/100	B-	30,104	None identified
#19	Cabot	70/100	B-	27,076	None identified
#20	Little Rock	69/100	C+	202,591	None identified

Key Findings

The best water quality in Arkansas is found in Pine Bluff with a score of 97/100 and a grade of A+. This puts Pine Bluff among the top-performing cities in the country for drinking water safety.

The most concerning water quality is in Little Rock scoring 69/100 with a grade of C+. Residents may want to consider home water testing and filtration options.

The statewide average score is 83/100, which is 11 points above the national average of 72/100. A strong majority (85%) of Arkansas cities exceed the national average, indicating generally good water infrastructure across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city in Arkansas has the best water quality?

Pine Bluff has the best water quality in Arkansas with a score of 97/100 and a grade of A+. This score is based on contaminant levels, EPA compliance history, and infrastructure quality. Pine Bluff ranks among the top cities nationally for water quality.

Is Arkansas tap water safe to drink?

Water quality varies across Arkansas. The state average score is 83/100. 85% of Arkansas cities have good water quality (grade B or better). All cities in Arkansas maintain at least a C-grade, though individual results can vary by neighborhood and home plumbing. Always check your specific city's water quality report for the most accurate local information.

How many Arkansas cities have water quality concerns?

Of the 20 cities tracked in Arkansas, 0 cities have a D or F grade, indicating significant water quality concerns. An additional 1 city falls in the C range, suggesting moderate issues. 17 out of 20 cities (85%) score above the national average of 72/100. Residents concerned about their water quality can check their city's detailed report for specific contaminant information.