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 160,430 residents
Polk County in Florida has an average water quality score of 86/100 (Grade A-) based on analysis of 2 municipal water systems. The county's water systems serve approximately 160,430 residents.
Overall, Polk County demonstrates good water quality standards. 1 of 2 cities exceed the county average, with Lakeland leading with a score of 96/100.
2 cities ranked by water quality score
| Rank | City | Score | Grade | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lakeland Top concern: Fluoride (19.1% of limit) | 96 | A+ | 115,905 |
| 2 | Winter Haven Top concern: Total Trihalomethanes (32% of limit) | 75 | B | 44,525 |
Top detected contaminants across county water systems
| Contaminant | Avg Level | Max Level | EPA Limit | % of Limit | Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Trihalomethanes | 20.273 ug/L | 25.625 ug/L | 80 ug/L | 25.3% | 2 |
| Fluoride | 0.705 mg/L | 0.765 mg/L | 4 mg/L | 17.6% | 2 |
| Copper | 0.22 mg/L | 0.317 mg/L | 1.3 mg/L | 16.9% | 2 |
| Haloacetic Acids | 9.465 ug/L | 11.484 ug/L | 60 ug/L | 15.8% | 2 |
| Nitrite | 0.117 mg/L | 0.229 mg/L | 1 mg/L | 11.7% | 2 |
| Nitrate | 0.972 mg/L | 1.772 mg/L | 10 mg/L | 9.7% | 2 |
| Chromium | 0.009 mg/L | 0.009 mg/L | 0.1 mg/L | 8.7% | 2 |
| Arsenic | 0.001 mg/L | 0.001 mg/L | 0.01 mg/L | 8% | 1 |
Recent violations across county water systems
Water quality in Polk County, Florida 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 160,430 residents.
The county shows strong water quality performance, with scores ranging from 75/100 in Winter Haven to 96/100 in Lakeland. This 21-point spread indicates significant variation in water quality across the county, suggesting different water sources or treatment approaches.
The most prevalent contaminants detected across Polk County water systems include Total Trihalomethanes, Fluoride, Copper. All monitored contaminants remain within acceptable levels relative to EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).
Polk 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.
Polk County has an average water quality score of 86/100 (Grade A-) based on analysis of 2 municipal water systems serving 160,430 residents.
Lakeland has the highest water quality score in Polk County at 96/100. View the detailed report for Lakeland.
Most cities in Polk 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.