C55/100
Apex Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 82,029 residents · North Carolina
What's In Apex's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
1,4-dioxane | 2.10 µg/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: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
APEX, TOWN OF
Population Served
82,029
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0392045
Frequently Asked Questions About Apex Water
Is Apex tap water safe to drink?
Apex, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of C (55/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 30 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Apex's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Apex's water supply, the most notable include 1,4-dioxane. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Apex have any water quality violations?
Yes, Apex has 30 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Apex?
Apex water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Apex's tap water come from?
Apex's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by APEX, TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 82,029 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Apex'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. Apex'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 Apex's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Apex's water quality score of 55/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Apex's water quality?
If you have concerns about Apex'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 (APEX, TOWN OF) 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.