Maine Water Quality Rankings 2026

All 15 cities ranked by water quality score

State Average83/100

Cities Ranked

Sanford

Best City (95/100)

South Portland

Lowest Score (69/100)

87%

Above National Avg

Grade Distribution

How Maine's 15 cities are distributed by water quality grade

A Range

60% of cities

B Range

33% of cities

C Range

7% of cities

0% of cities

Cities with good water quality (B or better)80%

12 out of 15 cities meet or exceed a B grade for water quality

All 15 Maine 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	Sanford	95/100	A+	21,982	None identified
2	Presque Isle	89/100	A-	8,797	None identified
3	Biddeford	88/100	A-	21,990	None identified
#4	Scarborough	87/100	A-	22,135	None identified
#5	Westbrook	87/100	A-	20,400	None identified
#6	Bangor	86/100	A-	31,753	None identified
#7	Saco	86/100	A-	20,381	None identified
#8	Augusta	85/100	A-	18,697	None identified
#9	Portland	85/100	A-	68,408	None identified
#10	Auburn	84/100	B+	24,061	None identified
#11	Lewiston	80/100	B+	36,221	None identified
#12	Gorham	79/100	B	18,336	None identified
#13	Waterville	73/100	B-	15,828	None identified
#14	Brunswick	71/100	B-	20,278	None identified
#15	South Portland	69/100	C+	26,498	None identified

Key Findings

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

The most concerning water quality is in South Portland 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 (87%) of Maine cities exceed the national average, indicating generally good water infrastructure across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which city in Maine has the best water quality?

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

Is Maine tap water safe to drink?

Water quality varies across Maine. The state average score is 83/100. 80% of Maine cities have good water quality (grade B or better). All cities in Maine 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 Maine cities have water quality concerns?

Of the 15 cities tracked in Maine, 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. 13 out of 15 cities (87%) 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.