PFAS in Philadelphia, PA Drinking Water
PFAS data for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania · 1,582,836 residents · 87 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: the highest detected level is 7.3 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
Because PFAS is associated with health effects at sustained elevated exposures, residents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania may find it useful that local water systems have returned detectable concentrations - facts that bear on long-term household water decisions.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Philadelphia Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 7.3 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 1,582,836 residents across 87 ZIP codes in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia's overall water quality grade is A (91/100).
Is PFAS in Philadelphia Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or granular activated carbon filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
PFAS Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | PFAS Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19113 | 275 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19131 | 275 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19102 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19103 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19104 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19106 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19107 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19111 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19112 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19114 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19115 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19116 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19118 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19119 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19120 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19121 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19122 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19123 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19124 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19125 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19126 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19127 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19128 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19129 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 19130 | 50 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| ...195 more ZIP codes |
Average pfas level across Philadelphia: 17.96 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 Philadelphia 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.