F5/100
Oxford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 64,721 residents · Mississippi
What's In Oxford's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.034 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
1,4-dioxane | 0.446 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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: July 1, 2022 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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: July 1, 2022 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
ANCHOR WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
2,051
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360002
CAMPGROUND WATER ASSN
Population Served
1,151
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360003
COLLEGE HILL WATER ASSN
Population Served
1,146
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360004
EAST OXFORD WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
1,544
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360006
HOPEWELL WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
1,684
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360008
CITY OF OXFORD
Population Served
28,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360011
UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI
Population Served
26,874
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360015
WESTOVER WATER ASSOCIATION, INC
Population Served
1,771
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MS0360016
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford Water
Is Oxford tap water safe to drink?
Oxford, Mississippi tap water receives a grade of F (5/100), which is considered failing. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 1073 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Oxford's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Oxford's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 6 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Oxford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Oxford has 1073 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MON, TT, RPT. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Oxford?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Oxford 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 Oxford's tap water come from?
Oxford's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ANCHOR WATER ASSOCIATION and 7 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 64,721 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Oxford'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. Oxford'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 Oxford's water compare to other cities in Mississippi?
Oxford's water quality score of 5/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Mississippi state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Oxford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Oxford'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 (ANCHOR WATER ASSOCIATION) 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.