Is Nashville Tap Water Safe To Drink?
Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.
Tap water in Nashville is generally safe to drink. Metro Water Services treats and tests the water to meet or exceed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Tennessee drinking water standards.
Lead can enter water from older household plumbing, even when the public supply is treated. If your home was built before 1986, use cold water for drinking and cooking, and consider a filter certified to reduce lead.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
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 Nashville, United States
Nashville’s tap water comes primarily from the Cumberland River. Metro Water Services draws river water and treats it before distributing it to homes and businesses.
Treatment takes place at the K.R. Harrington and Omohundro water treatment plants. The treated water is then stored in reservoirs and tanks throughout the service area before reaching taps.
Nashville Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Nashville are generally safe to use because they are supplied by treated municipal water that must meet federal and Tennessee drinking-water standards. Fountains in well-maintained public facilities are routinely connected to the same regulated water system serving homes and businesses.
Avoid a fountain that is visibly dirty, damaged, or not flowing properly, and let the water run briefly before drinking. People with weakened immune systems may prefer sealed bottled water or a personally filtered bottle when fountain maintenance is uncertain.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Nashville. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
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.