Excellent Water Quality
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 4.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Exceeded |
| PFBS | 3.4 ppt | 2000 ppt | 100 ppt | Below limit |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Newburyport, Massachusetts (01950) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 87 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 6 points above the Massachusetts state average of 81. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Newburyport Water Department, a surface water system providing water to approximately 20,335 people. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds EPA limits — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals.
A score of 87/100 means the water supply in Newburyport, MA meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
Common Questions
Based on EPA data, tap water in Newburyport, Massachusetts receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 87/100. This indicates the water meets federal standards and has relatively few concerns. However, individual homes may still have localized issues such as lead from old plumbing.
ZIP code 01950 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 20,335 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 01950. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
Yes — 2 PFAS compounds were detected in water serving Newburyport, Massachusetts, and 1 exceeds EPA maximum contaminant levels. PFAS are persistent chemicals linked to cancer, immune system effects, and developmental issues. A reverse osmosis or activated carbon filter certified for PFAS removal is recommended.
Water systems serving Newburyport, Massachusetts have received 1 violation in the last 5 years. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
Based on detected contaminants (PFAS), residents in Newburyport, Massachusetts should consider: Reverse osmosis (RO) system — most effective for PFAS, lead, and other contaminants. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.