Hagerstown vs Salisbury Water Quality

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

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

Hardness comparison

Hagerstown has significantly harder water at 110 PPM versus Salisbury at 30 PPM, a difference of 80 PPM. Salisbury residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Hagerstown draws from Antietam Creek & wells, while Salisbury uses Wicomico River & wells. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Salisbury (37.3 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

Chlorine levels are higher in Salisbury at 1.6 mg/L. If the taste bothers you, a carbon filter or shower filter is an easy fix.

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

MetricHagerstownSalisbury
Hardness110 PPM30 PPM
GPG6.41.8
TDS152 PPM49 PPM
PFAS0 ppt37.3 ppt
Lead0.8 ppb3 ppb
Chlorine0.7 mg/L1.6 mg/L
LevelModerately HardSlightly Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Hagerstown or Salisbury?
Hagerstown has harder water at 110 PPM compared to Salisbury at 30 PPM. That is a difference of 80 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Salisbury to Hagerstown?
Probably not. At 110 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Salisbury water safe to drink?
Salisbury water meets EPA safety standards. However, PFAS levels of 37.3 ppt exceed the 2024 EPA health advisory of 4 ppt. A certified filter is recommended.