Hermiston vs Prineville Water Quality

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

If you are comparing Hermiston and Prineville 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 Prineville at 48 PPM, a difference of 2 PPM. Prineville 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 Prineville uses Crooked River & Ochoco Creek. 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.

MetricHermistonPrineville
Hardness50 PPM48 PPM
GPG2.92.8
TDS67 PPM83 PPM
PFAS29.5 ppt0 ppt
Lead3 ppb1.9 ppb
Chlorine0.7 mg/L0.4 mg/L
LevelSlightly HardSlightly Hard

FAQ

Which has harder water, Hermiston or Prineville?
Hermiston has harder water at 50 PPM compared to Prineville at 48 PPM. That is a difference of 2 PPM.
Do I need a water softener if I move from Prineville to Hermiston?
Probably not. At 50 PPM, the water is manageable without a softener for most homes.
Is Prineville water safe to drink?
Prineville water meets EPA safety standards. No contaminants exceed health guidelines in our data.