Arsenic exposure in drinking water is tracked by EPA across the country; households in Bakersfield, California are among those with confirmed detections in the public water record.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Arsenic in Bakersfield Tap Water

Arsenic has been detected in Bakersfield, California drinking water at a maximum level of 50 ppb — 5x the EPA MCL.

This analysis covers 286,339 residents across 24 ZIP codes in Bakersfield.

Bakersfield's overall water quality grade is B (75/100).

Is Arsenic in Bakersfield Water Safe?

Arsenic was detected in Bakersfield water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis filter can reduce arsenic levels further.

Arsenic Levels by ZIP Code

Average arsenic level across Bakersfield: 48 ppb

Health Effects of Arsenic

• Increased risk of skin, bladder, lung, and kidney cancer
• Cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes
• Skin changes (darkening, thickening, lesions)
• Developmental effects in children exposed in utero

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Arsenic Rule (2006).

How Arsenic Gets Into Drinking Water

• Natural deposits in rock and soil (especially in western U.S.)
• Runoff from orchards and glass/electronics production
• Historical use of arsenic-based pesticides
• Well water in areas with arsenic-rich geology

What to Do About Arsenic in Bakersfield Water

1. Install a reverse osmosis (RO) system certified under NSF 58
2. Adsorptive media filters (iron-based) can also reduce arsenic
3. Have well water tested if on a private supply
4. Boiling water does NOT remove arsenic — it concentrates it

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for arsenic removal.

Related

• Arsenic — National Overview
• Arsenic in California
• California Water Quality
• Bakersfield Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code