F8/100
Anchorage Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 229,426 residents · Alaska
What's In Anchorage's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 31, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2022 – July 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: May 1, 2022 – July 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
MOA MUNICIPALITY OF ANCHORAGE
Population Served
221,351
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AK2210906
OW DIMOND ESTATES TRAILER COURT
Population Served
1,395
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AK2211075
SOUTHWOOD MANOR TC
Population Served
1,005
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AK2211677
GIRDWOOD WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
2,942
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AK2212021
UNIFIED ALASKAN UTILITIES SETTLERS BAY
Population Served
2,733
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AK2221834
Frequently Asked Questions About Anchorage Water
Is Anchorage tap water safe to drink?
Anchorage, Alaska tap water receives a grade of F (8/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 908 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Anchorage's water?
Of the 79 contaminants tested in Anchorage's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Anchorage have any water quality violations?
Yes, Anchorage has 908 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 12 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Anchorage?
Anchorage water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Anchorage's tap water come from?
Anchorage's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by MOA MUNICIPALITY OF ANCHORAGE and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 229,426 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Anchorage's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Anchorage's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Anchorage's water compare to other cities in Alaska?
Anchorage's water quality score of 8/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Alaska state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Anchorage's water quality?
If you have concerns about Anchorage's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (MOA MUNICIPALITY OF ANCHORAGE) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.