B63/100
Albany Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 109,467 residents · New York
What's In Albany'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) | 0.016 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Violation related to Turbidity
When: December 19, 2024 – January 3, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
ALBANY CITY
Population Served
98,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY0100189
COLONIE VILLAGE
Population Served
8,030
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NY0100194
CHELSEA RIDGE APARTMENTS
Population Served
2,303
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
NY1303216
WASHINGTON CORRECTIONAL
Population Served
1,134
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY5704191
Frequently Asked Questions About Albany Water
Is Albany tap water safe to drink?
Albany, New York tap water receives a grade of B (63/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Albany's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Albany'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 Albany have any water quality violations?
Yes, Albany has 122 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Albany?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Albany 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 Albany's tap water come from?
Albany's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ALBANY CITY and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 109,467 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Albany'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. Albany'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 Albany's water compare to other cities in New York?
Albany's water quality score of 63/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Albany's water quality?
If you have concerns about Albany'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 (ALBANY CITY) 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.