C47/100
Cambridge Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 22,636 residents · Ohio
What's In Cambridge's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 27.00 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
strontium | 1900.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2019.
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
CAMBRIDGE, CITY OF
Population Served
10,520
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OH3000111
GUERNSEY CO. WATER DEPT.
Population Served
8,891
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OH3000603
WESTERN GUERNSEY REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT
Population Served
3,225
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
OH3001103
Frequently Asked Questions About Cambridge Water
Is Cambridge tap water safe to drink?
Cambridge, Ohio tap water receives a grade of C (47/100), which is considered fair. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 136 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Cambridge's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Cambridge's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), PFOA, strontium. 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 Cambridge have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cambridge has 136 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 86 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Cambridge?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Cambridge 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 Cambridge's tap water come from?
Cambridge's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by CAMBRIDGE, CITY OF and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 22,636 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Cambridge'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. Cambridge'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 Cambridge's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Cambridge's water quality score of 47/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Ohio state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cambridge's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cambridge'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 (CAMBRIDGE, 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.