B65/100
Greensboro Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 319,588 residents · North Carolina
What's In Greensboro's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
3
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
4 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.028 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFHxS | 0.015 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 250.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2025 – September 2, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: November 1, 2022 – November 30, 2022Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
GREENSBORO, CITY OF
Population Served
319,588
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0241010
Frequently Asked Questions About Greensboro Water
Is Greensboro tap water safe to drink?
Greensboro, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of B (65/100), which is considered good. Out of 76 contaminants tested, 3 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 4 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 Greensboro's water?
Of the 76 contaminants tested in Greensboro's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFHxS, PFOA, chlorate. 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 4 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Greensboro have any water quality violations?
Yes, Greensboro has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Greensboro?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Greensboro 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 Greensboro's tap water come from?
Greensboro's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by GREENSBORO, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 319,588 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Greensboro'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. Greensboro'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 Greensboro's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Greensboro's water quality score of 65/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Greensboro's water quality?
If you have concerns about Greensboro'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 (GREENSBORO, CITY 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.