C42/100
Kent Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 309,662 residents · Ohio
What's In Kent's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 854.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
KENT CITY PWS
Population Served
29,662
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OH6701812
AKRON CITY PWS
Population Served
280,000
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OH7700011
Frequently Asked Questions About Kent Water
Is Kent tap water safe to drink?
Kent, Ohio tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 67 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Kent's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Kent's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 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 Kent have any water quality violations?
Yes, Kent has 67 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, MR, TT. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Kent?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Kent 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 Kent's tap water come from?
Kent's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by KENT CITY PWS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 309,662 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Kent'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. Kent'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 Kent's water compare to other cities in Ohio?
Kent's water quality score of 42/100 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 Kent's water quality?
If you have concerns about Kent'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 (KENT CITY 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.