Hermiston vs Astoria Water Quality

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

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

Hardness comparison

Hermiston has somewhat harder water at 50 PPM versus Astoria at 12 PPM, a difference of 38 PPM. Astoria residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.

Water sources and why they differ

Water sources differ: Hermiston draws from Columbia River via USBR, while Astoria uses Bear Creek Reservoir. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.

Contaminant concerns

PFAS contamination is a concern in Hermiston (29.5 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.

MetricHermistonAstoria
Hardness50 PPM12 PPM
GPG2.90.7
TDS67 PPM20 PPM
PFAS29.5 ppt0 ppt
Lead3 ppb1.6 ppb
Chlorine0.7 mg/L1 mg/L
LevelSlightly HardSoft

FAQ

Which has harder water, Hermiston or Astoria?
Hermiston has harder water at 50 PPM compared to Astoria at 12 PPM. That is a difference of 38 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Astoria to Hermiston?
Probably not. At 50 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Astoria water safe to drink?
Astoria water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.