A89/100
Harlingen Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 91,711 residents · Texas
What's In Harlingen'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 |
|---|---|---|---|
strontium | 1530.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
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
HARLINGEN WATER WORKS SYSTEM
Population Served
85,900
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
TX0310002
CITY OF PRIMERA
Population Served
5,811
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TX0310094
Frequently Asked Questions About Harlingen Water
Is Harlingen tap water safe to drink?
Harlingen, Texas tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), 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 Harlingen's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Harlingen's water supply, the most notable include strontium. 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 Harlingen have any water quality violations?
Yes, Harlingen has 18 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MON, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Harlingen?
Harlingen 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 Harlingen's tap water come from?
Harlingen's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by HARLINGEN WATER WORKS SYSTEM and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 91,711 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Harlingen'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. Harlingen'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 Harlingen's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Harlingen's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Harlingen among the better-performing water systems in Texas. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Harlingen's water quality?
If you have concerns about Harlingen'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 (HARLINGEN WATER WORKS SYSTEM) 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.