Radium in Salinas, CA Drinking Water
Radium data for Salinas, California · 196,107 residents · 8 ZIP codes
ZipCheckup's reading of Radium in Salinas, California: the highest detected level is 11.44 pCi/L; the EPA limit is 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228). Radium carries a high health-risk designation.
EPA records show Radium detections in Salinas, California water samples.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-07-13
Radium in Salinas Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Salinas, California drinking water at a maximum level of 11.44 pCi/L — relative to the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).
This analysis covers 196,107 residents across 8 ZIP codes in Salinas.
Salinas's overall water quality grade is B (75/100).
Is Radium in Salinas Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter certified under NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Radium Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93901 | 11.44 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Not comparable |
Average radium level across Salinas: 11.44 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 Salinas 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.