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 6 cities serving 808,933 residents
Sacramento County in California has an average water quality score of 94/100 (Grade A) based on analysis of 6 municipal water systems. The county's water systems serve approximately 808,933 residents.
Overall, Sacramento County demonstrates good water quality standards. 5 of 6 cities exceed the county average, with Rancho Cordova leading with a score of 100/100.
6 cities ranked by water quality score
| Rank | City | Score | Grade | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Folsom | 100 | A | 80,969 |
| 2 | Citrus Heights | 100 | A | 67,818 |
| 3 | Rancho Cordova | 100 | A | 47,161 |
| 4 | Elk Grove Biggest deduction: Other PFAS detected in UCMR5 sampling: PFHxS 3.8 ppt, PFPeA 4.6 ppt (−4 pts) | 96 | A | 43,813 |
| 5 | Carmichael Biggest deduction: Other PFAS detected in UCMR5 sampling: PFPeA 5.9 ppt, PFHxA 6 ppt (−4 pts) | 94 | A | 41,193 |
| 6 | Sacramento Biggest deduction: PFOA detected at up to 17.3 ppt in UCMR5 sampling (2024-05-15), at or above EPA's 4 ppt MCL (−10 pts) | 74 | C | 527,979 |
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) | 7.533 ppt | 41.4 ppt | 4 ppt | 188.3% | 6 |
| HAA5 (2012–2019 avg) | 20.919 ug/L | 26.798 ug/L | 60 ug/L | 34.9% | 3 |
| TTHM (2012–2019 avg) | 23.739 ug/L | 40 ug/L | 80 ug/L | 29.7% | 4 |
| Nitrate (2012–2019 avg) | 0.776 mg/L | 2.343 mg/L | 10 mg/L | 7.8% | 6 |
| Fluoride (2012–2019 avg) | 0.205 mg/L | 0.742 mg/L | 4 mg/L | 5.1% | 4 |
| Arsenic (2012–2019 avg) | 0.491 ug/L | 1.964 ug/L | 10 ug/L | 4.9% | 4 |
| Lead (90th percentile) | 0 ppb | 0 ppb | 15 ppb | 0% | 6 |
| Uranium (2012–2019 avg) | 0 ug/L | 0 ug/L | 30 ug/L | 0% | 2 |
Recent violations across county water systems
Water quality in Sacramento County, California reflects the region's unique combination of water sources, treatment infrastructure, and environmental factors. Our comprehensive analysis examines 6 municipal water systems serving a combined population of over 808,933 residents.
The county shows strong water quality performance, with scores ranging from 74/100 in Sacramento to 100/100 in Rancho Cordova. This 26-point spread indicates significant variation in water quality across the county, suggesting different water sources or treatment approaches.
The most prevalent contaminants detected across Sacramento County water systems include PFAS (PFOA/PFOS max, UCMR5), HAA5 (2012–2019 avg), TTHM (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.
Sacramento 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.
Sacramento County has an average water quality score of 94/100 (Grade A) based on analysis of 6 municipal water systems serving 808,933 residents.
Rancho Cordova has the highest water quality score in Sacramento County at 100/100. View the detailed report for Rancho Cordova.
Most cities in Sacramento 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.