Lead in Gainesville, FL Drinking Water
Lead data for Gainesville, Florida · 224,073 residents · 18 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Lead in Gainesville, Florida: the highest detected level is 1 ppb; the EPA limit is 15 ppb (action level). Lead carries a high health-risk designation.
Not every city shows Lead in its water data; in Gainesville, Florida, federal sampling has confirmed its presence at detectable levels in at least one recent reporting cycle.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Lead in Gainesville Tap Water
Lead has been detected in Gainesville, Florida drinking water at a maximum level of 1 ppb — below the EPA action level of 15 ppb (action level).
This analysis covers 224,073 residents across 18 ZIP codes in Gainesville.
Gainesville's overall water quality grade is B (76/100).
Is Lead in Gainesville Water Safe?
Lead was detected in Gainesville water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA action level may not be protective enough — the CDC states there is no safe level of lead for children.
If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter can reduce lead levels further.
Lead Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Lead Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32601 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32602 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32603 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32604 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32605 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32606 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32607 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32608 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32609 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32610 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32611 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32612 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32613 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32614 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32627 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32635 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32641 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
| 32653 | 1 ppb | 15 ppb (action level) | OK |
Average lead level across Gainesville: 1 ppb
Health Effects of Lead
- Brain development delays and reduced IQ in children
- Behavioral problems and learning disabilities
- High blood pressure and kidney damage in adults
- Increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR/LCRI).
How Lead Gets Into Drinking Water
- Corrosion of lead service lines (pipes connecting water main to home)
- Lead solder in copper plumbing joints (pre-1986 homes)
- Brass fixtures and faucets manufactured before 2014
- Stagnant water that sits in lead-containing pipes overnight
What to Do About Lead in Gainesville Water
- Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
- Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
- Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.