Charleston vs Bluffton Water Quality
Side-by-side water quality comparison for two South Carolina cities.
If you are comparing Charleston and Bluffton water quality - whether moving, choosing between the two, or curious about a relative's water - here is what the data shows.
Hardness comparison
Charleston has somewhat harder water at 80 PPM versus Bluffton at 55 PPM, a difference of 25 PPM. Bluffton residents generally do not need any water softening equipment.
Water sources and why they differ
Water sources differ: Charleston draws from Edisto + Bushy Park, while Bluffton uses Floridan Aquifer. Both use similar source types, but local geology creates the hardness variation.
Contaminant concerns
PFAS contamination is a concern in Charleston (22.27 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.
| Metric | Charleston | Bluffton |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 80 PPM | 55 PPM |
| GPG | 4.7 | 3.2 |
| TDS | 120 PPM | 95 PPM |
| PFAS | 22.27 ppt | 0 ppt |
| Lead | 3.5 ppb | 11 ppb |
| Chlorine | 1.2 mg/L | 1.3 mg/L |
| Level | Moderately Hard | Slightly Hard |