Bangor vs Portland Water Quality
Side-by-side water quality comparison for two Maine cities.
If you are comparing Bangor and Portland water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.
Hardness comparison
Bangor has somewhat harder water at 44 PPM versus Portland at 10 PPM, a difference of 34 PPM. Portland residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.
Water sources and why they differ
Water sources differ: Bangor draws from Flood's Pond, while Portland uses Sebago Lake. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.
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.
| Metric | Bangor | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 44 PPM | 10 PPM |
| GPG | 2.6 | 0.6 |
| TDS | 39 PPM | 22 PPM |
| PFAS | 0 ppt | 0 ppt |
| Lead | 7.5 ppb | 1.9 ppb |
| Chlorine | 1 mg/L | 0.6 mg/L |
| Level | Slightly Hard | Soft |
FAQ
Which has harder water, Bangor or Portland?
Bangor has harder water at 44 PPM compared to Portland at 10 PPM. That is a difference of 34 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Portland to Bangor?
Probably not. At 44 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Portland water safe to drink?
Portland water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.