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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 50 cities in Massachusetts
See the top 20 cities with the cleanest, safest drinking water
Complete water quality rankings for every city in Massachusetts
49,075 residents
72,362 residents
115,554 residents
59,408 residents
57,213 residents
67,787 residents
41,946 residents
54,481 residents
25,860 residents
38,238 residents
46,461 residents
81,360 residents
62,186 residents
105,643 residents
63,447 residents
42,514 residents
206,518 residents
692,600 residents
39,235 residents
118,927 residents
35,939 residents
41,303 residents
63,191 residents
43,222 residents
32,370 residents
100,656 residents
46,308 residents
44,641 residents
37,006 residents
65,218 residents
66,263 residents
34,984 residents
26,377 residents
89,143 residents
44,480 residents
27,115 residents
41,793 residents
40,787 residents
53,059 residents
94,000 residents
36,569 residents
27,002 residents
88,414 residents
31,611 residents
155,929 residents
101,253 residents
42,670 residents
55,186 residents
41,313 residents
101,636 residents
This state's water quality reflects local geographic conditions, industrial activities, and water infrastructure. Water quality can vary significantly between communities, with some areas enjoying excellent tap water while others face contamination challenges requiring treatment.
Based on our analysis of 50 cities in Massachusetts, the average water quality score is 83/100. 5 cities have water quality scores below 70, indicating potential concerns that residents should be aware of. The highest-rated city is Quincy with a score of 54/100, while Everett has the most room for improvement at 96/100.
Water sources typically include a combination of surface water (rivers, lakes, reservoirs) and groundwater. The specific sources serving your community depend on local geography and infrastructure. Check your local water utility's Consumer Confidence Report for details about your water source.
These contaminants have been detected in various Massachusetts water systems
State environmental and health agencies oversee drinking water quality in compliance with federal EPA standards. Public water systems are required to test regularly and report results to residents through annual Consumer Confidence Reports.
Water quality concerns vary by location. Common issues include lead from older plumbing, agricultural runoff in rural areas, and industrial contamination near manufacturing sites. Check your local water quality report and consider testing if you have specific concerns.
Review your annual Consumer Confidence Report to understand local water quality. Consider having your water tested if you use a private well or have concerns about your plumbing. Water filters certified to remove specific contaminants can address most common water quality issues.
Most Massachusetts cities have tap water that meets EPA safety standards. With an average score of 83/100 across 50 cities we analyzed, Massachusetts generally has good water quality. However, water quality varies by location, so check your specific city's report.
The most common water quality concerns in Massachusetts include disinfection byproducts (chlorination), lead (older infrastructure), nitrates (agricultural areas). 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. With 5 cities in Massachusetts showing elevated contaminant levels, residents in those areas may benefit from filtration. Look for filters certified by NSF/ANSI to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Public water systems in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts. These chemicals are associated with industrial sites, military bases, and firefighting foam use. The EPA has set new PFAS limits effective 2024. Check individual Massachusetts city reports for PFAS testing results in your area.
Based on our analysis, Quincy has the highest water quality score in Massachusetts at 54/100 (Grade D). However, "best" depends on your specific health concerns. View our Best Water Quality in Massachusetts page for a complete ranking.
Public water systems in Massachusetts 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