Have you ever turned on the tap and wondered, “Is this water really safe?” If you live in New Jersey, you're not alone. From the dense cities of Newark and Jersey City to the quiet suburbs of Princeton and Cherry Hill, New Jersey water quality is a growing concern.
In fact, more and more residents are searching for real answers about what’s in their tap water — and what they can do to make it safer, cleaner, and better-tasting.
Let’s dive into what you really need to know about New Jersey water quality in 2025 — and the simple solution that can help you drink with confidence.
Is New Jersey tap water safe to drink in 2025?
The short answer? It depends.
New Jersey tap water is regulated and treated according to federal and state guidelines. But even if it meets legal standards, that doesn’t always mean it’s free of contaminants — or that it’s ideal for drinking straight from the tap.
Across New Jersey, there have been multiple reports of issues like:
- Elevated lead levels, especially in older buildings
- PFAS (forever chemicals) found in municipal water systems
- Excess chlorine, affecting both taste and odor
So while your tap water may be legally safe, it might not be something you feel good about drinking every day — especially for children, pregnant women, or anyone with a sensitive immune system.
Where does New Jersey’s tap water come from and how is it treated?
New Jersey’s water supply comes from both surface water (rivers, lakes, and reservoirs) and groundwater wells, depending on your region. Major water sources include the Delaware River, Passaic River, Raritan River, and various local aquifers.
Water treatment facilities remove many pollutants through steps like:
- Filtration (removing particles and sediment)
- Disinfection (often with chlorine or chloramine)
- pH balancing
- Corrosion control (to reduce lead leaching from pipes)
The treatment process is extensive, but the aging infrastructure in many cities means contaminants like lead or microplastics can re-enter the water on its way to your tap.
What’s in New Jersey tap water? Common contaminants and risks
According to public water quality reports and watchdog organizations, New Jersey water quality concerns include:
- Lead – from aging pipes and service lines, especially in older homes and schools
- PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) – industrial chemicals linked to health risks, found in over 100 NJ water systems
- Chlorine & chloramine – used to disinfect water but can cause bad taste, dry skin, and eye irritation
- Nitrates – from fertilizer runoff, especially in agricultural regions
- Microplastics – increasingly present in urban tap water systems
Even in low levels, these contaminants can build up in your body over time — and the long-term health effects are still being studied.
Regional differences: water quality across New Jersey counties
Water quality in New Jersey varies widely depending on where you live. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Newark: Ongoing lead pipe replacement efforts; still a concern in older buildings.
- Jersey City & Hoboken: Chlorine-heavy taste, and occasional PFAS detections.
- Trenton & Camden: Reports of aging water systems and cloudy water.
- South Jersey suburbs: Higher nitrate levels in some farming areas.
- Shore towns: Saltwater intrusion and seasonal issues due to tourism spikes.
If you're unsure about your local water, check your area’s Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) or get a simple home test kit.
Hardness levels in New Jersey: Is your water soft or hard?
Most of New Jersey’s tap water is moderately hard to hard, due to naturally occurring minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water isn’t dangerous, but it can:
-
Leave white buildup on faucets and appliances
Cause dry skin or dull hair
- Reduce the effectiveness of soap and detergent
While not a health risk, many New Jersey homeowners prefer filtering or softening their water to avoid these everyday annoyances.
Can you drink New Jersey tap water without filtering?
Yes, technically. But should you?
Even if your water is considered “safe,” filtering it removes residual contaminants, improves taste, and provides added peace of mind. It’s especially helpful if you:
- Live in an older building with potential lead plumbing
- Don’t like the chlorine taste or smell
- Have kids or pets who drink tap water regularly
- Want to reduce microplastics, PFAS, and other unregulated chemicals
Best water filters for New Jersey households
If you're ready to take control of your New Jersey water quality, here are a few filter options trusted by thousands of households:
- EcoPro Faucet Filter: Removes over 100 contaminants including chlorine, lead, microplastics, and PFAS. Quick and easy to install — no tools required.
- PitcherPro Filter Jug: Perfect for families who want clean, cold water in the fridge. Filters water in minutes and improves taste instantly.
- Ultra Filter: The best option for homes with high contamination concerns. Advanced filtration for serious peace of mind.
All Tappwater filters are designed to be sustainable, affordable, and easy to maintain, with refills delivered right to your door.
One EcoPro filter replaces up to 1,200 plastic bottles. That’s good for your health, your wallet, and the planet.
FAQ: New Jersey tap water safety, drinkability and filtration tips
1. Do I really need a water filter if I live in New Jersey?
Yes — especially if your home has older pipes, or if your city has reported PFAS, lead, or chlorine levels. A filter gives you an added layer of safety.
2. How long does a Tappwater filter last?
Tappwater filters are designed to last 3 months. You can subscribe and save to get automatic refills and never run out of clean water.
3. Does filtering my water remove the taste and smell of chlorine?
Absolutely. Tappwater filters remove chlorine and chloramine, giving you fresh, clean-tasting water straight from the tap.
Make clean, safe water part of your daily routine
New Jersey water quality in 2025 is better than it was — but it’s still not perfect. The good news? You don’t have to wait for cities to update pipes or policies. With the right water filter, you can take action today.
- Drink better
- Live healthier
- Reduce plastic waste
Get started with the EcoPro Faucet Filter and experience the difference of truly clean tap water — no bottled water needed.
