In Saint Louis, Missouri, Lead 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: 2026-04-05

Lead in Saint Louis Tap Water

Lead has been detected in Saint Louis, Missouri drinking water at a maximum level of 90 ppb — 6x the EPA action level.

This analysis covers 891,907 residents across 68 ZIP codes in Saint Louis.

Saint Louis's overall water quality grade is D (53/100).

Is Lead in Saint Louis Water Safe?

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or nsf 53 carbon block filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Lead Levels by ZIP Code

Average lead level across Saint Louis: 90 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 Saint Louis Water

1. Install an NSF 53 or NSF 58 certified filter at kitchen sink
2. Run cold water for 30 seconds before using for drinking or cooking
3. Use cold water only for cooking and preparing formula
4. Consider whole-home reverse osmosis if lead service line is present

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for lead removal.

Related

• Lead — National Overview
• Missouri Water Quality
• Saint Louis Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code