Hardest Water in Kentucky
13 cities ranked by water hardness. Georgetown tops the list at 160 PPM.
Kentucky's water hardness varies significantly by city and water source. The state average across our database is 139 PPM, which is hard. Many households will benefit from a softener or conditioner. 92% of cities we track in Kentucky have hardness above 120 PPM.
| # | City | PPM | GPG | Level | Softener? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgetown | 160 | 9.4 | Hard | Recommended |
| 2 | Bowling Green | 158 | 9.2 | Hard | Recommended |
| 3 | Owensboro | 157 | 9.2 | Hard | Recommended |
| 4 | Richmond | 155 | 9.1 | Hard | Recommended |
| 5 | Elizabethtown | 150 | 8.8 | Hard | Recommended |
| 6 | Lexington South | 150 | 8.8 | Hard | Recommended |
| 7 | Florence | 145 | 8.5 | Hard | Recommended |
| 8 | Covington | 140 | 8.2 | Hard | Recommended |
| 9 | Louisville | 130 | 7.6 | Hard | Recommended |
| 10 | Louisville Downtown | 130 | 7.6 | Hard | Recommended |
| 11 | Lexington | 124 | 7.3 | Hard | Recommended |
| 12 | Paducah | 120 | 7 | Hard | Recommended |
| 13 | London | 85 | 5 | Moderately Hard | Optional |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average water hardness in Kentucky?
Across 13 cities in our database, the average water hardness in Kentucky is 139 PPM (8.1 GPG). This ranges from 85 PPM in London to 160 PPM in Georgetown.
Do I need a water softener in Kentucky?
It depends on your city. 92% of Kentucky cities in our database (12 of 13) have hardness above 120 PPM where a softener provides measurable benefit. Check your specific city above.
Which Kentucky city has the softest water?
London has the softest water in Kentucky at 85 PPM (5 GPG). No water softener is needed at this level.
What causes hard water in Kentucky?
Hard water in Kentucky is caused by dissolved calcium and magnesium from the local geology. Regional geology varies, with some areas having limestone bedrock that adds minerals and others with granite or sandstone that produces softer water.