PFAS in Tacoma, WA Drinking Water
PFAS data for Tacoma, Washington · 364,667 residents · 38 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of PFAS in Tacoma, Washington: the highest detected level is 0.0138 ppt; the EPA limit is 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually). PFAS carries a high health-risk designation.
If you rely on a public water system in Tacoma, Washington, PFAS is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for - and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
PFAS in Tacoma Tap Water
PFAS has been detected in Tacoma, Washington drinking water at a maximum level of 0.0138 detections — relative to the EPA MCL of 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually).
This analysis covers 364,667 residents across 38 ZIP codes in Tacoma.
Tacoma's overall water quality grade is A (94/100).
Is PFAS in Tacoma 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 98445 | 42 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98433 | 30 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98446 | 26 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98444 | 21 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98448 | 16 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98466 | 10 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98404 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98443 | 6 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98402 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98403 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98405 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98406 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98407 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98408 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98409 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98416 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98418 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98421 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98422 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98424 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
| 98465 | 5 detections | 4 ppt (PFOA/PFOS individually) | Not comparable |
Average pfas level across Tacoma: 10.57 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 Tacoma 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.