Anchorage vs Sitka Water Quality

Side-by-side water quality comparison for two Alaska cities.

If you are comparing Anchorage and Sitka water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.

Hardness comparison

Anchorage has somewhat harder water at 35 PPM versus Sitka at 8 PPM, a difference of 27 PPM. Sitka residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Anchorage draws from Eklutna Lake + Ship Creek, while Sitka uses Blue Lake & Indian River. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Anchorage (15.13 ppt, above the EPA limit of 4 ppt). A reverse osmosis system or NSF P473-certified filter is recommended for drinking water.

What this means for you

Not sure what your specific situation needs? Take the quiz to get a recommendation based on your water data, budget, and household size.

MetricAnchorageSitka
Hardness35 PPM8 PPM
GPG20.5
TDS50 PPM14 PPM
PFAS15.13 ppt0 ppt
Lead1.6 ppb13 ppb
Chlorine0.5 mg/L1 mg/L
LevelSlightly HardSoft

FAQ

Which has harder water, Anchorage or Sitka?
Anchorage has harder water at 35 PPM compared to Sitka at 8 PPM. That is a difference of 27 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Sitka to Anchorage?
Probably not. At 35 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Sitka water safe to drink?
Sitka water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.