Louisiana Water Quality Rankings 2026

All 30 cities ranked by water quality score

State Average77/100

Cities Ranked

Hammond

Best City (96/100)

Houma

Lowest Score (52/100)

67%

Above National Avg

Grade Distribution

How Louisiana's 30 cities are distributed by water quality grade

A Range

27% of cities

B Range

47% of cities

C Range

20% of cities

7% of cities

0% of cities

Cities with good water quality (B or better)63%

19 out of 30 cities meet or exceed a B grade for water quality

All 30 Louisiana 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	Hammond	96/100	A+	21,359	None identified
2	Estelle	95/100	A+	18,140	None identified
3	Lafayette	93/100	A	121,374	None identified
#4	Monroe	93/100	A	47,702	None identified
#5	Shreveport	93/100	A	187,593	None identified
#6	Prairieville	89/100	A-	33,197	None identified
#7	Mandeville	87/100	A-	13,192	None identified
#8	Central	86/100	A-	29,565	None identified
#9	New Iberia	84/100	B+	28,555	None identified
#10	Baker	83/100	B+	13,232	None identified
#11	Marrero	83/100	B+	32,382	None identified
#12	Ruston	83/100	B+	24,447	None identified
#13	New Orleans	82/100	B+	383,997	None identified
#14	Bossier City	81/100	B+	62,701	None identified
#15	Kenner	81/100	B+	65,364	None identified
#16	Opelousas	81/100	B+	15,786	None identified
#17	Slidell	81/100	B+	28,781	None identified
#18	Terrytown	81/100	B+	25,278	None identified
#19	Zachary	78/100	B	19,315	None identified
#20	Shenandoah	74/100	B-	20,385	None identified
#21	Chalmette	72/100	B-	21,562	None identified
#22	Laplace	71/100	B-	28,841	None identified
#23	Natchitoches	68/100	C+	17,783	None identified
#24	Harvey	67/100	C+	21,226	None identified
#25	Sulphur	65/100	C+	19,929	None identified
#26	Thibodaux	59/100	C-	15,948	None identified
#27	Baton Rouge	56/100	C-	227,470	None identified
#28	Lake Charles	56/100	C-	84,872	None identified
#29	Alexandria	54/100	D	45,275	None identified
#30	Houma	52/100	D	33,727	None identified

Key Findings

The best water quality in Louisiana is found in Hammond with a score of 96/100 and a grade of A+. This puts Hammond among the top-performing cities in the country for drinking water safety.

The most concerning water quality is in Houma scoring 52/100 with a grade of D. Residents may want to consider home water testing and filtration options.

2 cities with D or F grades:

Alexandria — Score: 54/100, Grade: D
Houma — Score: 52/100, Grade: D

The statewide average score is 77/100, which is 5 points above the national average of 72/100. Over half (67%) of Louisiana cities score above the national average, though some areas face challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city in Louisiana has the best water quality?

Hammond has the best water quality in Louisiana with a score of 96/100 and a grade of A+. This score is based on contaminant levels, EPA compliance history, and infrastructure quality. Hammond ranks among the top cities nationally for water quality.

Is Louisiana tap water safe to drink?

Water quality varies across Louisiana. The state average score is 77/100. 63% of Louisiana cities have good water quality (grade B or better). However, 2 cities have water quality concerns with a grade of D or F. Residents in those areas should consider water testing and filtration. Always check your specific city's water quality report for the most accurate local information.

How many Louisiana cities have water quality concerns?

Of the 30 cities tracked in Louisiana, 2 cities have a D or F grade, indicating significant water quality concerns. An additional 6 cities fall in the C range, suggesting moderate issues. 20 out of 30 cities (67%) 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.