Colorado Springs Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)

Colorado Springs, Colorado tap water receives a grade of C (45/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 527 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.

Of the 76 contaminants tested in Colorado Springs's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.

Yes, Colorado Springs has 527 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, MR, MON. 13 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.

Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Colorado Springs is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.

Colorado Springs's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CHEROKEE MD and 9 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 561,279 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.

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. Colorado Springs'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.

Colorado Springs's water quality score of 45/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Colorado state page to see how all cities in the state compare.

If you have concerns about Colorado Springs'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 (CHEROKEE MD) 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.