PFAS in Illinois Drinking Water — 6 ZIPs Tested
EPA data analysis for pfas in Illinois drinking water systems
PFAS Contamination in Illinois
ZipCheckup analyzed drinking water data across 1,583 ZIP codes in Illinois for pfas contamination. 6 ZIP codes have reported pfas detections, and 0 have EPA violations on record.
EPA Standard for PFAS
The EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL) for pfas is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS), governed by the PFAS NPDWR (2024). Water systems that exceed this limit must take corrective action and notify consumers.
Worst ZIP Codes for PFAS in Illinois
These ZIP codes reported the highest pfas levels in Illinois based on CCR reports and EPA data:
Lowest PFAS Levels in Illinois
These ZIP codes had the lowest reported pfas detections in Illinois:
Health Effects of PFAS
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are linked to cancer (kidney, testicular), thyroid disease, immune system suppression, reproductive problems, and elevated cholesterol. These "forever chemicals" persist in the body for years.
How to Remove PFAS From Drinking Water
The most effective treatment for pfas removal is Reverse Osmosis or Granular Activated Carbon. Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 standards.
Check Your ZIP Code
Use the ZipCheckup water quality search to see pfas data for your specific water system in Illinois.
Worst ZIP Codes for PFAS in Illinois
Ranked by highest pfas detection level.
| Rank | ZIP Code | City | Level Detected | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 60079 | Waukegan | 2.7 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
| 2 | 60085 | Waukegan | 2.7 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
| 3 | 60087 | Waukegan | 2.7 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
| 4 | 60076 | Skokie | 2.1 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
| 5 | 60077 | Skokie | 2.1 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
| 6 | 60203 | Evanston | 2.1 ppt | 4 ppt | Within Limit |
Lowest PFAS Levels in Illinois
Cities with PFAS Data in Illinois
147 cities in Illinois have pfas testing data available.
+ 127 more cities