A83/100
Ithaca Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 80,308 residents · New York
What's In Ithaca's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 365.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
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: April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
CAYUGA HEIGHTS VILLAGE
Population Served
3,170
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NY5404411
ITHACA CITY
Population Served
29,457
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY5404416
ITHACA TOWN WD
Population Served
13,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NY5404419
LANSING (V)
Population Served
3,100
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NY5416982
CORNELL UNIVERSITY
Population Served
31,581
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NY5417686
Frequently Asked Questions About Ithaca Water
Is Ithaca tap water safe to drink?
Ithaca, New York tap water receives a grade of A (83/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 70 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 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 Ithaca's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Ithaca's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Ithaca have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ithaca has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, MR, MRDL. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Ithaca?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Ithaca 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 Ithaca's tap water come from?
Ithaca's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CAYUGA HEIGHTS VILLAGE and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 80,308 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Ithaca'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. Ithaca'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 Ithaca's water compare to other cities in New York?
Ithaca's water quality score of 83/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Ithaca among the better-performing water systems in New York. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Ithaca's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ithaca'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 (CAYUGA HEIGHTS VILLAGE) 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.