Water scarcity continues to be a global concern, with 57% of Americans expressing more worry about safe drinking water than other environmental issues, such as global warming or air pollution. According to a J.D. Power study, Americans are using more water than ever before, with water and sewer bills increasing by 54.8% since 2012. Additionally, 41% of customers do not feel that the water provided by their local utility is safe to drink. In response to this growing concern, J.D. Power ranked U.S. states based on tap water quality, with customers rating factors such as taste, color, and odor on a scale of one to 10.
Washington emerged as the state with the best tap water, with 84.5% of customers giving their water positive marks. Customers in Washington have reported satisfaction with the cleanliness and taste of their water, as well as the absence of any noticeable issues. The state has implemented measures to address contaminants, such as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” found in drinking water. Washington’s Department of Health launched a dashboard to inform residents about potential contamination and adopted a drinking water standard higher than the EPA’s regulation on PFAS to limit exposure to harmful substances.
On the other end of the spectrum, Arizona was identified as having the worst tap water in America, with customers citing concerns about water hardness, which can lead to damage to pipes, residue on surfaces, and unpleasant taste and odor. States in the southern part of the U.S. were found to have some of the worst tap water overall, indicating a need for further improvements in water quality and infrastructure. Georgia and Louisiana stood out as exceptions, ranking among the top states with the best tap water despite their regional location.
The study by J.D. Power focused specifically on tap water quality this year, following last year’s assessment of both reliability and quality. The data, gathered from over 30,000 residential water utility customers, highlights the varying perceptions and experiences with tap water across different states. Customers play a crucial role in shaping water quality standards and regulations, as their feedback and satisfaction ratings inform utility providers and government agencies about areas for improvement and potential health risks.
Efforts to address water quality issues, such as contamination with harmful chemicals like PFAS, are ongoing in many states across the country. Washington’s proactive approach to monitoring and regulating water quality sets an example for other states to follow in safeguarding public health and environmental sustainability. By prioritizing clean and safe drinking water, communities can mitigate the risks associated with water scarcity and ensure access to a vital resource for all residents. Ongoing monitoring, public education, and policy interventions are essential components of a comprehensive strategy to improve tap water quality nationwide.
