Delaware Water Quality Rankings 2026

All 10 cities ranked by water quality score

State Average83/100

Cities Ranked

Newark

Best City (95/100)

Seaford

Lowest Score (59/100)

90%

Above National Avg

Grade Distribution

How Delaware's 10 cities are distributed by water quality grade

A Range

50% of cities

B Range

40% of cities

C Range

10% of cities

0% of cities

Cities with good water quality (B or better)90%

9 out of 10 cities meet or exceed a B grade for water quality

All 10 Delaware 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	Newark	95/100	A+	33,673	None identified
2	Middletown	88/100	A-	23,192	None identified
3	Elsmere	87/100	A-	5,814	None identified
#4	Dover	86/100	A-	39,403	None identified
#5	New Castle	86/100	A-	5,302	None identified
#6	Georgetown	84/100	B+	7,436	None identified
#7	Wilmington	83/100	B+	70,898	None identified
#8	Smyrna	81/100	B+	12,583	None identified
#9	Milford	79/100	B	11,463	None identified
#10	Seaford	59/100	C-	8,310	None identified

Key Findings

The best water quality in Delaware is found in Newark with a score of 95/100 and a grade of A+. This puts Newark among the top-performing cities in the country for drinking water safety.

The most concerning water quality is in Seaford scoring 59/100 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 (90%) of Delaware cities exceed the national average, indicating generally good water infrastructure across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city in Delaware has the best water quality?

Newark has the best water quality in Delaware with a score of 95/100 and a grade of A+. This score is based on contaminant levels, EPA compliance history, and infrastructure quality. Newark ranks among the top cities nationally for water quality.

Is Delaware tap water safe to drink?

Water quality varies across Delaware. The state average score is 83/100. 90% of Delaware cities have good water quality (grade B or better). All cities in Delaware 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 Delaware cities have water quality concerns?

Of the 10 cities tracked in Delaware, 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. 9 out of 10 cities (90%) 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.