B65/100
Athens Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 52,036 residents · Ohio
What's In Athens's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2020.
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
ATHENS PWS
Population Served
32,725
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH0500212
LE-AX REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT PWS
Population Served
19,311
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH0501111
Frequently Asked Questions About Athens Water
Is Athens tap water safe to drink?
Athens, Ohio tap water receives a grade of B (65/100), which is considered good. Out of 74 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Athens's water?
Of the 74 contaminants tested in Athens's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Athens have any water quality violations?
Yes, Athens has 43 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Athens?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Athens 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 Athens's tap water come from?
Athens's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ATHENS PWS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 52,036 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Athens'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. Athens'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 Athens's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Athens'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 Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Athens's water quality?
If you have concerns about Athens'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 (ATHENS PWS) 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.