Water Quality in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach's water has PFAS above EPA limits (5 ppt). An activated carbon filter can reduce PFAS levels. Read below for a full breakdown.

City of Virginia Beach · Source: Lake Gaston, Norfolk system · Serves 459,470 residents

20
Hardness (PPM)
54
TDS (PPM)
1.1
Chlorine (mg/L)
5
PFAS (ppt)
5
Lead (ppb)
20 PPM 0 400 Slightly Hard
CONTAMINANT LEVELS Hardness 20 PPM TDS 54 PPM PFAS 5 ppt Lead 5 ppb Chlorine 1.1 mg/L Nitrate 2 mg/L

Hardness Scale: Where Virginia Beach Falls

Soft 060120180250400+
Moderately hardPFAS from military

Military installations contribute to PFAS concerns.

What Virginia Beach's Water Means for Your Home

Virginia Beach's water is slightly hard at 20 PPM. At this level, hard water is not a significant concern for most households. Scale buildup is minimal, and a water softener would provide little measurable benefit. If you are considering water treatment in Virginia Beach, focus on contaminant filtration rather than softening.

PFAS contamination is a significant concern in Virginia Beach. At 5 parts per trillion, levels exceed the EPA's 2024 maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment or the human body, which is why they are called "forever chemicals." Long-term exposure has been associated with increased cancer risk, thyroid disruption, and immune system effects. A whole-house activated carbon filter or point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS to safe levels. Look for NSF P473 certification when comparing products.

ContaminantDetectedHealth GuidelineLegal LimitStatus
Hardness (as CaCO₃)20 PPM< 60 PPMNo federal limit✓ OK
Total Dissolved Solids54 PPM< 300 PPM500 PPM✓ OK
PFAS (total)5 ppt4 ppt (EPA)4 ppt (2024)⚠ Above limit
Lead5 ppb0 ppb (no safe level)15 ppb (action level)✓ Low
Chlorine / Chloramine1.1 mg/LTaste threshold ~1.04.0 mg/L✓ Normal
Nitrate2 mg/L5 mg/L10 mg/L✓ OK

Recommendations for Virginia Beach Homes

🔬 Activated Carbon Filter for PFAS
PFAS detected at 5 ppt, above the EPA maximum contaminant level of 4 ppt. PFAS are linked to cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system effects with long-term exposure. A whole-house granular activated carbon (GAC) filter or a point-of-use reverse osmosis system can reduce PFAS. Look for NSF P473 certification, which specifically tests for PFAS removal.
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About Virginia Beach's Water Supply

Water Utility: City of Virginia Beach

Water Source: Lake Gaston, Norfolk system

Population Served: 459,470

Hardness: 20 PPM (1.2 grains per gallon)

Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. The values above represent typical averages reported by City of Virginia Beach. To get exact numbers for your address, request a copy of the most recent Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your utility, or have your water independently tested.

Compare Virginia Beach to Other Virginia Cities

Norfolk

53 PPM · Slightly Hard

Richmond

70 PPM · Moderately Hard

Hampton

28 PPM · Slightly Hard

Newport News

24 PPM · Slightly Hard

Alexandria

39 PPM · Slightly Hard

Roanoke

74 PPM · Moderately Hard

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Beach Water

Is Virginia Beach tap water safe to drink?
Virginia Beach's water meets EPA legal standards for drinking water safety. However, legal limits and health-optimal levels are different things. PFAS levels exceed the 2024 EPA health standard, which is a concern for long-term exposure. Review the contaminant table above for specific numbers and how they compare to both legal limits and health guidelines.
Do I need a water softener in Virginia Beach?
No. At 20 PPM, Virginia Beach's water is very soft. A water softener would provide no benefit here. Focus on filtration if you have specific contaminant concerns.
What water filter is best for Virginia Beach?
The best filter depends on which contaminants you want to address. For PFAS, look for a filter with NSF P473 certification. Granular activated carbon (GAC) and reverse osmosis systems are both effective. Standard carbon pitcher filters may not remove PFAS adequately. See our softener vs. filter guide to understand the difference between these categories.
Where does Virginia Beach's water come from?
Virginia Beach's drinking water is sourced from Lake Gaston, Norfolk system and treated by City of Virginia Beach. Military installations contribute to PFAS concerns..
What is the hardness of Virginia Beach water in grains per gallon?
Virginia Beach's water hardness is 1.2 grains per gallon (GPG), which equals 20 parts per million (PPM). This is classified as slightly hard. To convert: 1 GPG = 17.1 PPM.
Does Virginia Beach water damage tankless water heaters?
At 1.2 GPG, Virginia Beach's water is unlikely to cause significant issues for tankless water heaters. However, if you notice reduced flow or efficiency over time, scale buildup could be a factor. Annual flushing with vinegar is good maintenance regardless of hardness.
Is Virginia Beach water safe for babies and infants?
Virginia Beach's water meets all EPA safety standards and is generally considered safe for preparing infant formula. The hardness minerals (calcium and magnesium) are not harmful. If your home has older plumbing, running cold water for 30 seconds before use is a good precaution to flush any lead from pipes.

Data sources. Water quality data compiled from EPA SDWIS, EWG Tap Water Database, USGS water hardness studies, and the City of Virginia Beach Consumer Confidence Report. Hardness and contaminant levels represent typical average values and may vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: 2026-02-12.