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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 1 cities in Wisconsin
See the top 20 cities with the cleanest, safest drinking water
Complete water quality rankings for every city in Wisconsin
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 1 cities in Wisconsin, the average water quality score is 95/100.
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin cities have tap water that meets EPA safety standards. With an average score of 95/100 across 1 cities we analyzed, Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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. Most Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin. These chemicals are associated with industrial sites, military bases, and firefighting foam use. The EPA has set new PFAS limits effective 2024. Check individual Wisconsin city reports for PFAS testing results in your area.
Based on our analysis, Milwaukee has the highest water quality score in Wisconsin at 95/100 (Grade A+). However, "best" depends on your specific health concerns. View our Best Water Quality in Wisconsin page for a complete ranking.
Public water systems in Wisconsin 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