Federal water monitoring extends to thousands of public water systems, and in Palm Desert, California, that tracking has turned up Chromium-6 — the detection is logged in the EPA compliance record and reflects samples collected under routine Safe Drinking Water Act reporting requirements.

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

Chromium-6 in Palm Desert Tap Water

Chromium-6 has been detected in Palm Desert, California drinking water at a maximum level of 8.4 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 100 ppb (total chromium MCL).

This analysis covers 274,881 residents across 4 ZIP codes in Palm Desert.

Palm Desert's overall water quality grade is C (63/100).

Is Chromium-6 in Palm Desert Water Safe?

Chromium-6 was detected in Palm Desert 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 or strong-base anion exchange filter can reduce chromium-6 levels further.

Chromium-6 Levels by ZIP Code

Average chromium-6 level across Palm Desert: 8.4 ppb

Health Effects of Chromium-6

• Stomach and intestinal cancer (likely carcinogen via ingestion)
• Known carcinogen when inhaled
• Liver and kidney damage
• Reproductive and developmental harm

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

How Chromium-6 Gets Into Drinking Water

• Industrial discharge from steel and pulp mills
• Natural erosion of chromium deposits
• Coal ash disposal sites
• Cooling tower discharge

What to Do About Chromium-6 in Palm Desert Water

1. Reverse osmosis systems are most effective
2. Strong-base anion exchange can reduce chromium-6
3. Standard carbon filters are NOT effective for chromium-6
4. Look for NSF 58 certification

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for chromium-6 removal.

Related

• Chromium-6 — National Overview
• Chromium-6 in California
• California Water Quality
• Palm Desert Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code