Princeton vs Atlantic City Water Quality

Side-by-side water quality comparison for two New Jersey cities.

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

Hardness comparison

Princeton has somewhat harder water at 70 PPM versus Atlantic City at 25 PPM, a difference of 45 PPM. Atlantic City residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Princeton draws from Delaware River + local wells, while Atlantic City uses Kirkwood-Cohansey Aquifer. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Atlantic City (PFOA at 4.5 ppt, above the EPA limit of 4 ppt each). 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.

MetricPrincetonAtlantic City
Hardness70 PPM25 PPM
GPG4.11.5
TDS120 PPM48 PPM
PFAS0 ppt20.05 ppt
Lead4 ppb3.4 ppb
Chlorine1 mg/L1.4 mg/L
LevelModerately HardSlightly Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Princeton or Atlantic City?
Princeton has harder water at 70 PPM compared to Atlantic City at 25 PPM. That is a difference of 45 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Atlantic City to Princeton?
Probably not. At 70 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Atlantic City water safe to drink?
Atlantic City water meets EPA safety standards. However, PFOA at 4.5 ppt exceeds the EPA limit of 4 ppt each. A certified filter is recommended.