Buffalo vs Lockport Water Quality

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

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

Hardness comparison

Buffalo has somewhat harder water at 142 PPM versus Lockport at 140 PPM, a difference of 2 PPM. At 142 PPM, Buffalo residents will notice spotting and reduced soap efficiency. A softener is recommended for long-term appliance protection. Lockport also has hard water but to a lesser degree.

Both cities have hard water, but Buffalo's higher hardness means more aggressive scale buildup and higher household impact.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Buffalo draws from Lake Erie, Niagara River, while Lockport uses Lake Ontario via Erie Canal. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

What this means for you

If you are moving from Lockport to Buffalo, you will notice the water difference. Budget for a water softener and expect to use more soap and detergent until you install one.

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

MetricBuffaloLockport
Hardness142 PPM140 PPM
GPG8.38.2
TDS226 PPM220 PPM
PFAS0 ppt0 ppt
Lead4.7 ppb10 ppb
Chlorine1 mg/L1.2 mg/L
LevelHardHard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Buffalo or Lockport?
Buffalo has harder water at 142 PPM compared to Lockport at 140 PPM. That is a difference of 2 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Lockport to Buffalo?
Yes, you will likely notice the difference. At 142 PPM, a water softener is recommended to prevent scale buildup and protect appliances.
Is Lockport water safe to drink?
Lockport water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.

Buffalo Full Report

142 PPM

Lockport Full Report

140 PPM