Arsenic in Oswego, IL Drinking Water
Arsenic data for Oswego, Illinois · 38,169 residents · 1 ZIP code
In Oswego, Illinois, Arsenic has been detected in the public water supply — a contaminant that health agencies track because of documented effects associated with prolonged exposure at elevated concentrations.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Arsenic in Oswego Tap Water
Arsenic has been detected in Oswego, Illinois drinking water at a maximum level of 569 ppb — 56.9x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 38,169 residents across 1 ZIP code in Oswego.
Oswego's overall water quality grade is C (64/100).
Is Arsenic in Oswego 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60543 | 569 ppb | 10 ppb | Exceeds limit |
Average arsenic level across Oswego: 569 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 Oswego 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.