Nitrate in Bakersfield, CA Drinking Water
Nitrate data for Bakersfield, California · 286,339 residents · 24 ZIP codes
Within Bakersfield, California, Nitrate 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: 2026-05-14
Nitrate in Bakersfield Tap Water
Nitrate has been detected in Bakersfield, California drinking water at a maximum level of 5.01 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen).
This analysis covers 286,339 residents across 24 ZIP codes in Bakersfield.
Bakersfield's overall water quality grade is B (75/100).
Is Nitrate in Bakersfield Water Safe?
Nitrate was detected in Bakersfield 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 ion exchange filter can reduce nitrate levels further.
Nitrate Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Nitrate Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93302 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93303 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93307 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93308 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93309 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93311 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93312 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93313 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93314 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93380 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93381 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93382 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93383 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93384 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93385 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93386 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93387 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93388 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93389 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
| 93390 | 5.01 ppm | 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) | OK |
Average nitrate level across Bakersfield: 5.01 ppb
Health Effects of Nitrate
- Methemoglobinemia ("blue baby syndrome") in infants under 6 months
- Increased risk of colorectal and bladder cancer (long-term)
- Thyroid disease from chronic exposure
- Possible reproductive effects
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
How Nitrate Gets Into Drinking Water
- Agricultural fertilizer runoff
- Animal feedlot operations and manure
- Septic system leachate
- Urban stormwater and wastewater discharge
What to Do About Nitrate in Bakersfield Water
- Reverse osmosis is the most effective method for nitrate removal
- Ion exchange systems designed for nitrate can also work
- Standard carbon filters do NOT remove nitrate
- Boiling water increases nitrate concentration — never boil for nitrate
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for nitrate removal.