A90/100
Medford Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 106,068 residents · Oregon
What's In Medford's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 610.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2025 – July 11, 2025Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Consumer confidence report — inadequate or unavailable
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2025 – July 9, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Consumer Confidence 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
MEDFORD WATER COMMISSION
Population Served
106,068
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
OR4100513
Frequently Asked Questions About Medford Water
Is Medford tap water safe to drink?
Medford, Oregon tap water receives a grade of A (90/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none 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 Medford's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Medford's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Medford have any water quality violations?
Yes, Medford has 7 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Medford?
Medford water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Medford's tap water come from?
Medford's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by MEDFORD WATER COMMISSION. The system serves approximately 106,068 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Medford'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. Medford'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 Medford's water compare to other cities in Oregon?
Medford's water quality score of 90/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Medford among the better-performing water systems in Oregon. Visit our Oregon state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Medford's water quality?
If you have concerns about Medford'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 (MEDFORD WATER COMMISSION) 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.