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Oxford, MS · 66,460 people served · EPA data 2021–2026

Tap water quality in Oxford, Mississippi

Oxford's water systems logged 3 health-based EPA violations in 2021–2026, most recently in 2024 — a modest record, with lead and copper rule revisions the issue found. For context, Mississippi's systems average 1.8 health-based violations each.

C+Fair
Oxford water grade: C+
Fair — our A–F grade from this city's EPA compliance record, relative to Mississippi and the nation. How we grade →
Health-based violations, 2021–20263
Lead And Copper Rule Revisions3
City Of Oxford28,500 served
University Of Mississippi26,874 served
Anchor Water Association2,051 served
Westover Water Association, Inc1,771 served
Mississippi quality rank#20 / 51 (84.6/100)
Mississippi avg hardness70 PPM (moderately hard)
Want to know what's actually in your Oxford 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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Oxford tap water FAQ

Is tap water safe to drink in Oxford?

Oxford's systems logged 3 health-based violations 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 Oxford's water?

City Of Oxford (serving about 28,500 people); University Of Mississippi (serving about 26,874 people); Anchor Water Association (serving about 2,051 people); Westover Water Association, Inc (serving about 1,771 people). Data: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System, July 2026.

How hard is the water in Oxford?

City-level hardness isn't published in a single federal dataset, but Mississippi averages 70 PPM — "moderately hard" on the USGS scale. Your utility's water quality report lists Oxford'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 Oxford?

With 3 health-based violations 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 Oxford 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.