Fluoride in Santa Cruz, CA Drinking Water
Fluoride data for Santa Cruz, California · 99,985 residents · 6 ZIP codes
Within Santa Cruz, California, Fluoride 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: 2026-04-05
Fluoride in Santa Cruz Tap Water
Fluoride has been detected in Santa Cruz, California drinking water at a maximum level of 2.01 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL).
This analysis covers 99,985 residents across 6 ZIP codes in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz's overall water quality grade is D (52/100).
Is Fluoride in Santa Cruz Water Safe?
Fluoride was detected in Santa Cruz 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 activated alumina filter can reduce fluoride levels further.
Fluoride Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Fluoride Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95060 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
| 95061 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
| 95062 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
| 95063 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
| 95064 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
| 95065 | 2.01 ppm | 4.0 mg/L (MCL) / 2.0 mg/L (SMCL) | OK |
Average fluoride level across Santa Cruz: 2.01 ppb
Health Effects of Fluoride
- Skeletal fluorosis at levels above 4 mg/L (bone pain, joint stiffness)
- Dental fluorosis in children at levels above 2 mg/L
- At 0.7 mg/L (water fluoridation level), helps prevent tooth decay
- Possible thyroid effects at high chronic exposure
Health risk severity: Moderate. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
How Fluoride Gets Into Drinking Water
- Intentional water fluoridation (0.7 mg/L target, beneficial)
- Natural deposits in certain rock formations
- Industrial discharge (aluminum, fertilizer production)
- Naturally elevated in some groundwater (especially arid regions)
What to Do About Fluoride in Santa Cruz Water
- Reverse osmosis removes 90%+ of fluoride
- Activated alumina filters are effective for fluoride
- Bone char carbon can reduce fluoride
- Standard activated carbon filters do NOT remove fluoride
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for fluoride removal.