Is Anchorage Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

Tap water in Anchorage, Alaska, is treated and regulated under EPA standards, making it generally safe for drinking. The water source is primarily groundwater and surface water.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility regularly tests for contaminants and maintains compliance with federal and state regulations. Water quality reports are publicly available.

Occasionally, advisories may be issued due to specific events, but these are temporary. Residents are encouraged to check local updates for any short-term safety notices.

Last checked: 2025-10-15

United States is ranked as number 15 globally with a score of 96.2% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Anchorage, United States

Anchorage's tap water comes mainly from Eklutna Lake, a surface water reservoir. It provides about 90% of the city's water supply.

The remaining water is sourced from groundwater wells located throughout the municipality. These wells supplement the surface water during high demand.

Both sources undergo treatment processes including filtration and disinfection to ensure water quality meets health standards before distribution to consumers.

Anchorage Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Anchorage meet municipal water safety standards and are regularly maintained to ensure cleanliness and safety for users.

Water supplied to these fountains is treated and tested to comply with EPA regulations, making it safe for public consumption under normal conditions.

Users should be cautious if they notice visible damage or contamination; otherwise, fountains are considered safe for drinking as part of the city water system.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Anchorage. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Anchorage is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.