A89/100
Hickory Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 94,979 residents · North Carolina
What's In Hickory's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2002.
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
ALEXANDER CO WTR DIST
Population Served
13,064
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0102020
CATAWBA, TOWN OF
Population Served
1,181
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0118040
HICKORY CITY OF
Population Served
75,654
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
NC0118010
SOUTHEAST CATAWBA COUNTY
Population Served
5,080
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC2018004
Frequently Asked Questions About Hickory Water
Is Hickory tap water safe to drink?
Hickory, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 77 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 Hickory's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Hickory's water supply, the most notable include Copper (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 Hickory have any water quality violations?
Yes, Hickory has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Hickory?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Hickory 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 Hickory's tap water come from?
Hickory's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by ALEXANDER CO WTR DIST and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 94,979 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Hickory'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. Hickory'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 Hickory's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Hickory's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Hickory among the better-performing water systems in North Carolina. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Hickory's water quality?
If you have concerns about Hickory'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 (ALEXANDER CO WTR DIST) 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.