Radium in Joliet, IL Drinking Water
Radium data for Joliet, Illinois · 130,147 residents · 6 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Radium in Joliet, Illinois: the highest detected level is 8 pCi/L; the EPA limit is 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228). Radium carries a high health-risk designation.
Across the water systems that serve Joliet, Illinois, Radium has appeared in EPA compliance samples - standard municipal treatment targets this contaminant, though detections in the compliance record indicate it has reached household taps at measurable levels.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Radium in Joliet Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Joliet, Illinois drinking water at a maximum level of 8 pCi/L — relative to the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).
This analysis covers 130,147 residents across 6 ZIP codes in Joliet.
Joliet's overall water quality grade is D (49/100).
Is Radium in Joliet Water Safe?
Radium was detected in Joliet 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 radium levels further.
Radium Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60431 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
| 60432 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
| 60433 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
| 60434 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
| 60435 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
| 60436 | 8 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
Average radium level across Joliet: 8 pCi/L
Health Effects of Radium
- Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
- The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
- Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
- No safe threshold for radioactive contamination
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.
How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water
- Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
- Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
- Mining and industrial waste
- Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)
What to Do About Radium in Joliet Water
- Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
- Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
- Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
- GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.