Arsenic in Cortez, FL Drinking Water
Arsenic data for Cortez, Florida · 347,800 residents · 1 ZIP code
Within Cortez, Florida, Arsenic has been detected in water samples drawn from the public supply — the results are part of the official EPA compliance record for systems here.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Arsenic in Cortez Tap Water
Arsenic has been detected in Cortez, Florida drinking water at a maximum level of 380 ppb — 38x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 347,800 residents across 1 ZIP code in Cortez.
Cortez's overall water quality grade is D (50/100).
Is Arsenic in Cortez Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Arsenic Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Arsenic Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34215 | 380 ppb | 10 ppb | Exceeds limit |
Average arsenic level across Cortez: 380 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 Cortez Water
- Install a reverse osmosis (RO) system certified under NSF 58
- Adsorptive media filters (iron-based) can also reduce arsenic
- Have well water tested if on a private supply
- Boiling water does NOT remove arsenic — it concentrates it
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for arsenic removal.