Gastonia vs Charlotte Water Quality

Side-by-side water quality comparison for two North Carolina cities.

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

Hardness comparison

Gastonia has somewhat harder water at 53 PPM versus Charlotte at 50 PPM, a difference of 3 PPM. Charlotte residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Gastonia draws from Mountain Island Lake, while Charlotte uses Mountain Island Lake + Catawba River. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Charlotte (10.85 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

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

MetricGastoniaCharlotte
Hardness53 PPM50 PPM
GPG3.12.9
TDS69 PPM80 PPM
PFAS0 ppt10.85 ppt
Lead0.1 ppb6 ppb
Chlorine1.4 mg/L1.3 mg/L
LevelSlightly HardSlightly Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Gastonia or Charlotte?
Gastonia has harder water at 53 PPM compared to Charlotte at 50 PPM. That is a difference of 3 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Charlotte to Gastonia?
Probably not. At 53 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Charlotte water safe to drink?
Charlotte water meets EPA safety standards. However, PFAS levels of 10.85 ppt exceed the 2024 EPA health advisory of 4 ppt. A certified filter is recommended.