PFAS in Madison, WI Drinking Water
PFAS data for Madison, Wisconsin · 282,013 residents · 35 ZIP codes
People in Madison, Wisconsin who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned PFAS detections in EPA compliance testing.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
PFAS in Madison Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Madison, Wisconsin drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0465 ppt — below the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 282,013 residents across 35 ZIP codes in Madison.
Madison's overall water quality grade is C (60/100).
Is PFAS in Madison Water Safe?
PFAS was detected in Madison 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 granular activated carbon filter can reduce pfas levels further.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 53716 | 14 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53703 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53704 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53705 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53706 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53711 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53713 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53714 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53715 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53717 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53718 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53719 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
| 53726 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Exceeds limit |
Average pfas level across Madison: 6.62 ppt
Health Effects of PFAS
- Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease and immune system suppression
- Reproductive problems and reduced fertility
- Elevated cholesterol and liver effects
- Developmental effects in infants and children
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the PFAS National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (2024).
How PFAS Gets Into Drinking Water
- Firefighting foam (AFFF) used at military bases and airports
- Industrial manufacturing (non-stick coatings, stain-resistant fabrics)
- Wastewater treatment plants that receive industrial discharge
- Landfill leachate from PFAS-containing consumer products
What to Do About PFAS in Madison Water
- Install a reverse osmosis system (most effective — removes 90%+ of PFAS)
- Granular activated carbon (GAC) filters remove some PFAS compounds
- Look for NSF 53 or NSF 58 certification specifically tested for PFAS
- Pitcher filters with activated carbon provide partial reduction
Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for pfas removal.