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Cary, NC · 234,056 people served · EPA data 2021–2026

Tap water quality in Cary, North Carolina

Cary's water systems logged 1 health-based EPA violation in 2021–2026, most recently in 2023 — a modest record, with revised total coliform rule the issue found. For context, North Carolina's systems average 1.9 health-based violations each.

A-Excellent
Cary water grade: A-
Excellent — our A–F grade from this city's EPA compliance record, relative to North Carolina and the nation. How we grade →
Health-based violations, 2021–20261
Revised Total Coliform Rule1
Cary, Town Of224,000 served
Brookwood South/Fayetteville Pwc2,357 served
Park South S/D1,930 served
Medfield Estates S/D772 served
North Carolina quality rank#2 / 51 (99.7/100)
North Carolina avg hardness120 PPM (moderately hard)
Want to know what's actually in your Cary 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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Cary tap water FAQ

Is tap water safe to drink in Cary?

Cary's systems logged 1 health-based violation in 2021–2026, most commonly revised total coliform rule. 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 Cary's water?

Cary, Town Of (serving about 224,000 people); Brookwood South/Fayetteville Pwc (serving about 2,357 people); Park South S/D (serving about 1,930 people); Medfield Estates S/D (serving about 772 people). Data: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System, July 2026.

How hard is the water in Cary?

City-level hardness isn't published in a single federal dataset, but North Carolina averages 120 PPM — "moderately hard" on the USGS scale. Your utility's water quality report lists Cary'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 Cary?

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 Cary 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.