Arsenic in Illinois Drinking Water — 66 ZIPs Tested

Arsenic Contamination in Illinois

ZipCheckup analyzed drinking water data across 1,583 ZIP codes in Illinois for arsenic contamination. 66 ZIP codes have reported arsenic detections, and 76 have EPA violations on record.

The violation rate for arsenic in Illinois is 4.8% of all ZIP codes — roughly in line with the national average.

EPA Standard for Arsenic

The EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for arsenic is 10 ppb, governed by the Arsenic Rule (2006). Water systems that exceed this limit must take corrective action and notify consumers.

Worst ZIP Codes for Arsenic in Illinois

These ZIP codes reported the highest arsenic levels in Illinois based on CCR reports and EPA data:

Lowest Arsenic Levels in Illinois

These ZIP codes had the lowest reported arsenic detections in Illinois:

Health Effects of Arsenic

Long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water increases the risk of skin, bladder, lung, and kidney cancer. It also causes cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and skin lesions. The EPA classifies arsenic as a Group A human carcinogen.

How to Remove Arsenic From Drinking Water

The most effective treatment for arsenic removal is Reverse Osmosis. Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 standards.

Check Your ZIP Code

Use the ZipCheckup water quality search to see arsenic data for your specific water system in Illinois.