If you rely on a public water system in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Radium 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: 2026-05-14

Radium in Saint Paul Tap Water

Radium has been detected in Saint Paul, Minnesota drinking water at a maximum level of 11.6 pCi/L — 2.32x the EPA MCL.

This analysis covers 561,276 residents across 42 ZIP codes in Saint Paul.

Saint Paul's overall water quality grade is D (54/100).

Is Radium in Saint Paul Water Safe?

Radium was detected in Saint Paul 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

Average radium level across Saint Paul: 8.3 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 Saint Paul Water

1. Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
2. Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
3. Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
4. GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.

Related

• Radium — National Overview
• Radium in Minnesota
• Minnesota Water Quality
• Saint Paul Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code