C42/100
Auburn Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 14,533 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Auburn's Tap Water?
52
Contaminants Tested
3
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.70 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Enforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – May 25, 2022Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
AUBURN WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
12,255
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MA2017000
ELM HILL WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
2,278
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MA2017001
Frequently Asked Questions About Auburn Water
Is Auburn tap water safe to drink?
Auburn, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 307 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Auburn's water?
Of the 52 contaminants tested in Auburn's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, Copper (90th percentile), PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Auburn have any water quality violations?
Yes, Auburn has 307 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Auburn?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Auburn is recommended. 3 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.
Where does Auburn's tap water come from?
Auburn's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by AUBURN WATER DISTRICT and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 14,533 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Auburn'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. Auburn'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 Auburn's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Auburn's water quality score of 42/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Auburn's water quality?
If you have concerns about Auburn'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 (AUBURN WATER DISTRICT) 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.