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Richmond, KY · 66,700 people served · EPA data 2021–2026

Tap water quality in Richmond, Kentucky

Richmond's water systems logged 1 health-based EPA violation in 2021–2026, most recently in 2024 — a modest record, with lead and copper rule revisions the issue found. For context, Kentucky's systems average 2.3 health-based violations each.

CFair
Richmond water grade: C
Fair — our A–F grade from this city's EPA compliance record, relative to Kentucky and the nation. How we grade →
Health-based violations, 2021–20261
Lead And Copper Rule Revisions1
Richmond Utilities35,640 served
Madison Co Utilities District25,120 served
Kirksville Water Association5,940 served
Kentucky quality rank#38 / 51 (80.5/100)
Kentucky avg hardness112 PPM (moderately hard)
Want to know what's actually in your Richmond water?

Averages describe states, not your faucet. A certified home water test screens for lead, nitrates, bacteria and dozens of other contaminants — the same categories EPA regulates.

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Richmond tap water FAQ

Is tap water safe to drink in Richmond?

Richmond's systems logged 1 health-based violation in 2021–2026, most commonly lead and copper rule revisions. A violation is a red flag for a period of time, not a permanent condition — your utility's current Consumer Confidence Report shows today's status, and a certified home test shows what's at your tap.

Who supplies Richmond's water?

Richmond Utilities (serving about 35,640 people); Madison Co Utilities District (serving about 25,120 people); Kirksville Water Association (serving about 5,940 people). Data: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System, July 2026.

How hard is the water in Richmond?

City-level hardness isn't published in a single federal dataset, but Kentucky averages 112 PPM — "moderately hard" on the USGS scale. Your utility's water quality report lists Richmond's exact hardness, or a $10 test strip tells you in a minute. If it comes back over 120 PPM, see our water softener guidance in the purification calculator.

Do I need a water filter in Richmond?

With 1 health-based violation on record in 2021–2026, a certified filter is reasonable insurance here: reverse osmosis ($150–$1,300 installed, Angi 2026) covers lead, nitrates and PFAS at the tap. Test first ($50–$200) so you buy for what's actually present.

Want to know what's actually in your Richmond water?

Averages describe states, not your faucet. A certified home water test screens for lead, nitrates, bacteria and dozens of other contaminants — the same categories EPA regulates.

Test your water at home

We may earn a commission if you request quotes through this link. It costs you nothing and never affects the data we publish.