D32/100
Kinston Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 42,969 residents · North Carolina
What's In Kinston's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.009 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 470.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (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, 2022 – March 21, 2022Rule: 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
KINSTON, CITY OF
Population Served
27,475
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0454010
NORTH LENOIR WATER CORP
Population Served
15,494
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0454025
Frequently Asked Questions About Kinston Water
Is Kinston tap water safe to drink?
Kinston, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (32/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 97 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Kinston's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Kinston's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, chlorate. 2 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 Kinston have any water quality violations?
Yes, Kinston has 97 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Kinston?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Kinston is recommended. 2 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 Kinston's tap water come from?
Kinston's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by KINSTON, CITY OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 42,969 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Kinston'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. Kinston'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 Kinston's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Kinston's water quality score of 32/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Kinston's water quality?
If you have concerns about Kinston'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 (KINSTON, 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.