C45/100
Medford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 61,700 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Medford's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.015 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
2
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed to meet Level 1 treatment technique trigger
When: November 1, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Failed to meet Level 1 treatment technique trigger
When: July 1, 2023 – June 1, 2024Rule: 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
MEDFORD WATER DEPT. (MWRA)
Population Served
61,700
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
MA3176000
Frequently Asked Questions About Medford Water
Is Medford tap water safe to drink?
Medford, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of C (45/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 11 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Medford's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Medford's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Medford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Medford has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include TT, MR, MCL. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Medford?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Medford 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.
Where does Medford's tap water come from?
Medford's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by MEDFORD WATER DEPT. (MWRA). The system serves approximately 61,700 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Medford'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. Medford'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 Medford's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Medford'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 Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Medford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Medford'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 (MEDFORD WATER DEPT. (MWRA)) 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.