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 8 cities serving 885,951 residents
Baltimore County in Maryland has an average water quality score of 85/100 (Grade A-) based on analysis of 8 municipal water systems. The county's water systems serve approximately 885,951 residents.
Overall, Baltimore County demonstrates good water quality standards. 2 of 8 cities exceed the county average, with Catonsville leading with a score of 93/100.
8 cities ranked by water quality score
| Rank | City | Score | Grade | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Catonsville Top concern: Haloacetic Acids (16.7% of limit) | 93 | A | 39,966 |
| 2 | Dundalk Top concern: Haloacetic Acids (22.5% of limit) | 88 | A- | 63,046 |
| 3 | Baltimore Top concern: Lead (17.5% of limit) | 84 | B+ | 601,478 |
| 4 | Essex Top concern: Lead (17.7% of limit) | 84 | B+ | 42,277 |
| 5 | Carney Top concern: Total Trihalomethanes (18.8% of limit) | 84 | B+ | 25,542 |
| 6 | Towson Top concern: Fluoride (15.6% of limit) | 82 | B+ | 57,213 |
| 7 | Reisterstown Top concern: Total Trihalomethanes (25.8% of limit) | 82 | B+ | 23,933 |
| 8 | Parkville Top concern: Nitrite (22.9% of limit) | 79 | B | 32,496 |
Top detected contaminants across county water systems
| Contaminant | Avg Level | Max Level | EPA Limit | % of Limit | Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fluoride | 0.705 mg/L | 0.875 mg/L | 4 mg/L | 17.6% | 7 |
| Haloacetic Acids | 9.498 ug/L | 13.471 ug/L | 60 ug/L | 15.8% | 8 |
| Total Trihalomethanes | 10.884 ug/L | 20.666 ug/L | 80 ug/L | 13.6% | 7 |
| Copper | 0.165 mg/L | 0.328 mg/L | 1.3 mg/L | 12.7% | 8 |
| Arsenic | 0.001 mg/L | 0.002 mg/L | 0.01 mg/L | 10.4% | 8 |
| Lead | 0.001 mg/L | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | 9.5% | 7 |
| Chromium | 0.009 mg/L | 0.022 mg/L | 0.1 mg/L | 9.2% | 8 |
| Nitrite | 0.078 mg/L | 0.23 mg/L | 1 mg/L | 7.8% | 8 |
Recent violations across county water systems
Showing 10 of 11 recent violations
Water quality in Baltimore County, Maryland reflects the region's unique combination of water sources, treatment infrastructure, and environmental factors. Our comprehensive analysis examines 8 municipal water systems serving a combined population of over 885,951 residents.
The county shows strong water quality performance, with scores ranging from 79/100 in Parkville to 93/100 in Catonsville. This 14-point spread indicates relatively consistent water quality standards across municipal systems.
The most prevalent contaminants detected across Baltimore County water systems include Fluoride, Haloacetic Acids, Total Trihalomethanes. All monitored contaminants remain within acceptable levels relative to EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs).
Baltimore 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.
Baltimore County has an average water quality score of 85/100 (Grade A-) based on analysis of 8 municipal water systems serving 885,951 residents.
Catonsville has the highest water quality score in Baltimore County at 93/100. View the detailed report for Catonsville.
Most cities in Baltimore 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.