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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 scores for 5 cities in Ohio
It depends on your utility. 2 of the 5 Ohio water systems we grade from EPA records have a health-based violation in the last five years; the state averages 85/100 (3 below the national 88). Lowest graded: Columbus (C). Highest: Cleveland (A).
Ohio's official certified-lab list, when to test well vs city water, typical lab prices, and how to take a first-draw lead sample.
Across the 5 Ohio water systems we can grade from EPA records, the average score is 85/100 — 3 points below the U.S. national average of 88/100. 20% of graded Ohio cities (1 of 5) score above that national benchmark, and 1 earn a Grade A. 2 cities have at least one health-based EPA violation in the last five years.
The contaminants most commonly flagged in Ohio water systems are harmful algal bloom toxins (lake erie), atrazine (agricultural herbicide) and lead (aging infrastructure). See the full breakdown in our Ohio water quality rankings or compare against the cities with the best water quality in America.
See the top 20 cities with the cleanest, safest drinking water
Complete water quality rankings for every city in Ohio
1,308,955 residents
750,200 residents
360,000 residents
280,000 residents
1,305,946 residents
Ohio's water quality is influenced by its agricultural landscape, industrial legacy, and Great Lakes access. Lake Erie provides drinking water for millions of Ohioans, while many communities rely on rivers and groundwater. The state has faced challenges with algal blooms, agricultural runoff, and aging infrastructure.
Across the 5 Ohio cities graded from EPA records, the average water quality score is 85/100. The highest-rated city is Cleveland with a score of 99/100, while Columbus has the most room for improvement at 74/100.
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Lake Erie serves as the primary water source for northern Ohio, including Cleveland and Toledo. The Ohio River supplies water for Cincinnati and other southern communities. Central Ohio relies heavily on reservoirs and groundwater. Agricultural regions depend on local aquifers and smaller surface water sources.
These contaminants have been detected in various Ohio water systems
Ohio EPA oversees drinking water programs and has implemented enhanced monitoring for harmful algal blooms. The state has invested in addressing Toledo's 2014 water crisis and improving early warning systems. Ohio participates in regional efforts to reduce agricultural runoff into Lake Erie.
Lake Erie communities should be aware of seasonal algal bloom risks that can produce harmful toxins. Agricultural areas may have elevated atrazine and nitrate levels. Older urban areas face lead infrastructure concerns. Some industrial areas have specific contamination issues requiring attention.
Northern Ohio residents should stay informed about algal bloom conditions during summer and fall. Agricultural area residents should consider activated carbon filters for herbicide removal. Test for lead if you have older plumbing. Follow local advisories during algal bloom events and consider whole-house filtration in affected areas.
Most Ohio cities we grade have tap water in good standing with EPA. With an average score of 85/100 across 5 graded cities, Ohio generally has good water quality. However, water quality varies by utility, so check your specific city's report.
The most common water quality concerns in Ohio include harmful algal bloom toxins (lake erie), atrazine (agricultural herbicide), lead (aging infrastructure). 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.
Whether you need a water filter depends on your specific location and health concerns. Most Ohio 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.
Public water systems in Ohio 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.
Lead can be present in Ohio water, primarily from older plumbing infrastructure. Homes built before 1986 may have lead pipes or lead solder. While water treatment plants remove lead, it can leach into water from service lines and home plumbing. Check your city's specific report for lead testing data, and consider having your tap water tested if you live in an older home.
PFAS ("forever chemicals") have been detected in water systems across the United States, including in Ohio. These chemicals are associated with industrial sites, military bases, and firefighting foam use. The EPA has set new PFAS limits effective 2024. Check individual Ohio city reports for PFAS testing results in your area.
On EPA records, Cleveland has the highest water quality score in Ohio at 99/100 (Grade A). However, "best" depends on your specific health concerns. View our Best Water Quality in Ohio page for a complete ranking.
Public water systems in Ohio are required by the EPA to test water regularly. Testing frequency depends on the contaminant: bacteria testing occurs daily to weekly, while chemical contaminants may be tested quarterly or annually. Results are published in annual Consumer Confidence Reports. Our site aggregates this data from EPA's SDWIS database.
Compare water quality across counties and find data for your area