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.
New York Water Quality Reports
Water quality scores for 5 cities in New York
New York
9,800,000 residents
Rochester
540,000 residents
Syracuse
325,000 residents
Yonkers
200,000 residents
Buffalo
276,000 residents
About New York Water Quality
New York State has diverse water quality conditions ranging from New York City's world-renowned unfiltered watershed system to communities facing aging infrastructure challenges. The state's varied geography includes protected mountain watersheds, Great Lakes communities, and densely populated urban areas, each with distinct water quality considerations.
Based on our analysis of 5 cities in New York, the average water quality score is 93/100. The highest-rated city is Buffalo with a score of 86/100, while New York has the most room for improvement at 95/100.
Water Sources in New York
New York City receives unfiltered water from protected Catskill and Delaware watershed reservoirs. Upstate communities draw from the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, rivers, and local aquifers. Long Island depends entirely on groundwater from its aquifer system. Water sources and quality vary significantly by region.
Common Water Contaminants in New York
These contaminants have been detected in various New York water systems
New York Water Regulations
New York State Department of Health regulates drinking water and has established some standards stricter than federal requirements. The state has been particularly active in addressing PFAS contamination and lead in school drinking water. New York City's watershed protection program is internationally recognized.
Health Considerations
Older homes throughout New York may have lead service lines or lead solder in plumbing. Long Island residents should be aware of PFAS and 1,4-dioxane contamination in groundwater. Agricultural regions may have nitrate concerns. Some communities have struggled with disinfection byproduct levels.
Recommendations for New York Residents
New York residents in older homes should test for lead, especially if there are young children. Let water run for 30 seconds before drinking in homes with lead concerns. Consider activated carbon filters for chlorine taste and certified PFAS removal systems in affected areas. Review your water utility's Consumer Confidence Report annually.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Water Quality
Is New York's tap water safe to drink?
Most New York cities have tap water that meets EPA safety standards. With an average score of 93/100 across 5 cities we analyzed, New York generally has good water quality. However, water quality varies by location, so check your specific city's report.
What are the main water quality concerns in New York?
The most common water quality concerns in New York include lead (aging infrastructure), pfas (industrial contamination), haloacetic acids (disinfection byproducts). These contaminants can come from natural sources, industrial activities, or aging infrastructure. Review your city's specific report to see which contaminants affect your area.
Should I use a water filter in New York?
Whether you need a water filter depends on your specific location and health concerns. Most New York cities have water that meets EPA standards, though some residents prefer additional filtration for taste or extra protection. Look for filters certified by NSF/ANSI to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where can I find my New York water quality report?
Public water systems in New York are required to provide annual Consumer Confidence Reports (CCRs) to residents. You can usually find your report on your water utility's website, request it by phone, or access it through the EPA's database. Our city-level reports above summarize key information from these official sources.