Is New York Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Yes! The tap water is safe to drink.

New York City tap water is regularly tested and meets or exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards. It is sourced mainly from protected reservoirs in the Catskill and Delaware watersheds.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

The water undergoes treatment including filtration, disinfection with chlorine and ultraviolet light, and corrosion control to ensure safety and cleanliness. Lead levels are routinely monitored.

Multiple independent studies confirm New York tap water is safe and often considered among the best in the US. Most residents drink it without issues.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

United States is ranked as number 9 globally with a score of 96.4% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in New York, United States

New York City's tap water primarily comes from the Catskill, Delaware, and Croton watersheds. These are protected reservoir systems located north of the city.

The Catskill and Delaware watersheds supply about 90% of the water, sourced from large reservoirs and controlled rivers. The Croton system serves the rest of the city and parts of Westchester.

These sources are surrounded by protected land to minimize contamination and maintain high water quality, reducing the need for extensive filtration before distribution.

New York Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in New York City are regularly maintained and tested to ensure water quality meets safety standards. They use the same treated water as residential taps.

However, cleanliness of fountain fixtures can vary, so it is advisable to avoid direct mouth contact with spouts to reduce germ exposure.

Overall, the water dispensed is safe to drink, but personal hygiene practices should be followed when using public fountains.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in New York. 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 New York 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.