Is Vermont Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Water quality data for 5 cities across Vermont. Find your city below.
Water quality in Vermont varies significantly from city to city. Across 5 cities we track, hardness ranges from 14 PPM in Montpelier to 25 PPM in Rutland, with a statewide average of 20 PPM. Most cities in Vermont have relatively soft water, so a softener is generally unnecessary.
5
Cities
20
Avg Hardness (PPM)
25
Hardest City (PPM)
Complete Vermont Guide
Statewide water quality overview, costs, and treatment recommendations.
Well Water in Vermont
Testing, treatment, and common issues for private wells.
Hardest Water Rankings
Vermont cities ranked by water hardness level.
City Comparisons
Rutland vs Montpelier
Side-by-side water quality comparison.
Rutland vs Burlington
Side-by-side water quality comparison.
Burlington vs South Burlington
Side-by-side water quality comparison.
Vermont Cities by Water Hardness
| City | Hardness (PPM) | Level | PFAS (ppt) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rutland | 25 | Slightly Hard | 0 | Mendon Brook |
| Burlington | 22 | Slightly Hard | 0 | Lake Champlain |
| South Burlington | 20 | Slightly Hard | 0 | Lake Champlain |
| Essex | 18 | Slightly Hard | 0 | Lake Champlain |
| Montpelier | 14 | Soft | 0 | Berlin Pond |
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Water
Is Vermont tap water safe to drink?
Vermont tap water meets EPA legal standards in most cities. Water hardness is relatively low across the state. Check your specific city above for detailed data.
Do I need a water softener in Vermont?
Most Vermont homes do not need a water softener. The state average of 20 PPM is relatively soft.
Which Vermont city has the hardest water?
Rutland has the hardest water in Vermont at 25 PPM (1.5 GPG). Burlington is second at 22 PPM. See the full ranking.
What contaminants are in Vermont water?
The most common concerns across Vermont are chlorine and disinfection byproducts. Each city has different levels - check your city above for specific contaminant data.
How much does a water softener cost in Vermont?
A whole-house water softener for a typical Vermont home costs $800-$2,500 installed, depending on capacity and brand. At 20 PPM average hardness, most homes need a 32,000-48,000 grain system. Full cost breakdown.