Is New Orleans tap water safe to drink?
Use caution filtration recommended
New Orleans's water has significant quality concerns. We strongly recommend a certified water filter.
4 Issues Detected in New Orleans
PFAS (Forever Chemicals) Detected
PFAS are man-made chemicals that do not break down and accumulate in the body.
PFAS details for New OrleansHigh Chlorine Residual
Elevated chlorine can affect taste smell and skin.
Chlorine info for New Orleans701,127,011,370,114 · Mississippi River
Is New Orleans Tap Water Safe? PFAS Testing Results
Recent testing detected PFAS in New Orleans tap water. Below you'll find contaminant data, an overall purity score, and matched filter recommendations based on New Orleans's specific water profile.
Water Quality Data
Contaminant Levels
Health Insights
- 1PFAS have been identified in New Orleans's water at 3.9 parts per trillion. A reverse osmosis system is the most reliable home treatment.
- 2Chlorine residuals in New Orleans are on the higher end. An activated carbon filter readily removes it.
- 3Moderate lead risk exists in New Orleans. Homes with pre-1986 plumbing should consider a certified filter.
Score
New Orleans tap water is sourced from Mississippi River and treated by Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans. PFAS forever chemicals have been detected. Moderate lead risk exists in older homes with lead service lines. Overall purity score: 54/100 (Poor). Updated for 2026.
MATCHED TO NEW ORLEANS'S WATER DATA
Best Water Filters for New Orleans, LA (2026)
Matched to PFAS Detected, High Chlorine, Moderate Lead Risk in New Orleans.
Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher
Pitcher Filter
$80-95
Why this fits New Orleans
- Removes 99%+ of PFAS detected in New Orleans's water
- Eliminates chlorine taste and odor from New Orleans's water
- Certified to reduce lead critical for New Orleans's plumbing risk
Waterdrop G3P800 Tankless RO
Tankless Reverse Osmosis
$380-450
Why this fits New Orleans
- Removes 99%+ of PFAS detected in New Orleans's water
- Eliminates chlorine taste and odor from New Orleans's water
- Certified to reduce lead critical for New Orleans's plumbing risk
APEC Water Systems ROES-50
Under-Sink Reverse Osmosis
$195-220
Why this fits New Orleans
- Removes 99%+ of PFAS detected in New Orleans's water
- Eliminates chlorine taste and odor from New Orleans's water
- Certified to reduce lead critical for New Orleans's plumbing risk
Waterdrop 10UA Under-Sink Filter
Under-Sink Carbon Filter
$40-60
Why this fits New Orleans
- Eliminates chlorine taste and odor from New Orleans's water
- Certified to reduce lead critical for New Orleans's plumbing risk
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified
As an Amazon Associate, PurityMap may earn from qualifying purchases. Based on latest New Orleans water data.
Know exactly what's in YOUR tap
City data shows averages. Your home may differ.
Test Your Water — $25-30About New Orleans's Water
Understanding PFAS in New Orleans's Water Supply
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of synthetic chemicals used in industrial and consumer products since the 1940s. Testing identified PFAS compounds in New Orleans's water at 3.9 parts per trillion. These chemicals resist breakdown in the environment and the human body, which is why they're sometimes called forever chemicals. The EPA has established health advisories for several PFAS compounds. A certified reverse osmosis system removes 99% or more of PFAS from drinking water and is currently the most reliable home treatment option.
Chlorine Levels in New Orleans Water: What to Expect
Municipal systems serving New Orleans maintain chlorine residuals on the higher side to ensure water stays safe through aging distribution pipes. The trade-off is a noticeable taste or smell that some residents find objectionable. Carbon block or activated carbon filters readily remove chlorine disinfectants and their byproducts (trihalomethanes). These are among the most affordable and easy-to-install filtration options available.
Lead Risk in New Orleans: What Homeowners Should Do
Data for New Orleans shows a moderate lead risk. Because lead contamination is often tied to household plumbing rather than the municipal supply itself, exposure can vary significantly between homes. Homes built before 1986 are at greater risk due to lead solder in pipes. The most reliable protection is a point-of-use filter certified for lead removal under NSF/ANSI 53. A home water test kit can confirm whether your specific tap is affected.
Explore New Orleans Water Data
New Orleans Water FAQ
Is New Orleans LA tap water safe to drink in 2026?
Does New Orleans LA use chlorine or chloramine for disinfection?
How hard is New Orleans LA water and what is the TDS level?
Has PFAS been found in New Orleans LA drinking water?
What is the best water filter for New Orleans?
Nearby Reports
Compare across all 50 US states
Data Sources
- EPA SDWIS
- EWG Tap Water Database
- Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans CCR
- USGS monitoring data
PurityMap compiles public data. Updated March 2026.