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Not health advice. Contact your local water utility for concerns.
Data from EPA Water Quality Reports. For official information, contact your water utility or health department.
Water quality data for 2 cities serving 319,309 residents
Kern County in California has an average water quality score of 82/100 (Grade B) based on analysis of 2 municipal water systems. The county's water systems serve approximately 319,309 residents.
Overall, Kern County demonstrates good water quality standards. 1 of 2 cities exceed the county average, with Delano leading with a score of 90/100.
2 cities ranked by water quality score
| Rank | City | Score | Grade | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delano Biggest deduction: Arsenic: 167 of 1197 finished-water samples (2012–2019) above the 10 ug/l MCL (14% of samples); max 52 ug/l (−10 pts) | 90 | A | 51,428 |
| 2 | Bakersfield Biggest deduction: PFOA detected at up to 9.1 ppt in UCMR5 sampling (2026-04-06), at or above EPA's 4 ppt MCL (−10 pts) | 74 | C | 267,881 |
Real EPA readings across county water systems (lead: latest 90th percentile; PFAS: UCMR5 2023–2026; others: 2012–2019 averages)
| Contaminant | Avg Level | Max Level | EPA Limit | % of Limit | Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFAS (PFOA/PFOS max, UCMR5) | 7 ppt | 14 ppt | 4 ppt | 175% | 2 |
| Nitrate (2012–2019 avg) | 3.146 mg/L | 4.45 mg/L | 10 mg/L | 31.5% | 2 |
| Arsenic (2012–2019 avg) | 2.935 ug/L | 3.183 ug/L | 10 ug/L | 29.4% | 2 |
| HAA5 (2012–2019 avg) | 13.318 ug/L | 25.089 ug/L | 60 ug/L | 22.2% | 2 |
| TTHM (2012–2019 avg) | 11.492 ug/L | 15.776 ug/L | 80 ug/L | 14.4% | 2 |
| Fluoride (2012–2019 avg) | 0.396 mg/L | 0.545 mg/L | 4 mg/L | 9.9% | 2 |
| Lead (90th percentile) | 1.4 ppb | 2.8 ppb | 15 ppb | 9.3% | 2 |
| Uranium (2012–2019 avg) | 1.886 ug/L | 1.886 ug/L | 30 ug/L | 6.3% | 1 |
Water quality in Kern County, California reflects the region's unique combination of water sources, treatment infrastructure, and environmental factors. Our comprehensive analysis examines 2 municipal water systems serving a combined population of over 319,309 residents.
The county shows strong water quality performance, with scores ranging from 74/100 in Bakersfield to 90/100 in Delano. This 16-point spread indicates relatively consistent water quality standards across municipal systems.
The most prevalent contaminants detected across Kern County water systems include PFAS (PFOA/PFOS max, UCMR5), Nitrate (2012–2019 avg), Arsenic (2012–2019 avg). At least one reading averages above 50% of its EPA limit across the county's systems, worth attention from residents and utilities.
Kern County's water quality is generally good. Residents can feel confident in their tap water quality, though those with specific health concerns or sensitivity to certain contaminants may still benefit from filtration. Regular review of your city's annual Consumer Confidence Report is recommended.
Kern County has an average water quality score of 82/100 (Grade B) based on analysis of 2 municipal water systems serving 319,309 residents.
Delano has the highest water quality score in Kern County at 90/100. View the detailed report for Delano.
Most cities in Kern County have water that meets EPA standards. However, a water filter can provide additional protection and improve taste. The need depends on your specific city and any personal health considerations.
Click on any city in the rankings table above to view its detailed water quality report, including contaminant levels, EPA compliance history, and filter recommendations.