Last updated: April 2026.
🚿 New York Shower Water Quality Report (2026)
Comprehensive analysis of New York water quality across 5 cities • Based on real EWG testing data • Updated 2026
If you live in New York, you may be showering in water that contains contaminants exceeding health guidelines — and you might not even know it. Our analysis of water quality data across 5 New York cities reveals 8 contaminants that may exceed EWG health guidelines.
New York faces unique water quality challenges including aging infrastructure and disinfection byproducts. Whether you're in Albany or elsewhere in the state, understanding what's in your shower water is the first step toward protecting your skin and hair.
📊 New York Water Quality at a Glance
Across New York, we analyzed water quality data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database. The results show that New York residents may be exposed to a range of contaminants through their shower water — many at levels that exceed health guidelines set by the EWG, which are often stricter than federal legal limits.
⚠️ Top Contaminants Found in New York Water
Based on EWG data analysis, here are the most significant contaminants detected in New York water supplies:
| Contaminant | Avg. Level | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS) | 0.0000 ppt | 0.0000 ppt | ⚠️ 1183.0x above |
| Arsenic | 3.41 ppb | 0.0040 ppb | ⚠️ 852.1x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 41.23 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 687.2x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 42.83 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 428.3x above |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 50.65 ppb | 0.1500 ppb | ⚠️ 337.7x above |
| Trichloroacetic acid | 25.34 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 253.4x above |
| Bromodichloromethane | 8.16 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 135.9x above |
| Chloroform | 42.90 ppb | 0.4000 ppb | ⚠️ 107.3x above |
Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS)
The health guideline of 0.001 ppt for perfluorohexane sulfonate was defined by EWG based on studies by Phillipe Grandjean of Harvard University and many other independent researchers who found reduced effectiveness of vaccines and adverse impacts on mammary gland development from exposure to PFOA and PFOS, the two PFAS most widely detected in drinking water. This health guideline harm to the developing immune system.
National Average: 0.0000 ppt | New York Average: 0.0000 ppt
Arsenic
The health guideline of 0.004 ppb for arsenic was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 0.6242 ppb | New York Average: 3.41 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 23.70 ppb | New York Average: 41.23 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was established. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 19.82 ppb | New York Average: 42.83 ppb
🏙️ City-by-City Water Quality in New York
We've analyzed water quality in 5 New York cities. Click on any city to see its detailed water quality report:
| City | Contaminants Found | Above EWG Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Albany | 49 | 27 |
| Buffalo | 27 | 15 |
| New York | 22 | 11 |
| Yonkers | 31 | 11 |
| Rochester | 21 | 11 |
🩺 Health Effects of New York Water Contaminants
The contaminants found in New York water may be associated with various health concerns. When you shower, your skin — your body's largest organ — can absorb these substances, and you may inhale steam containing volatile compounds.
🧴 Skin & Hair
🫁 Respiratory
- Steam inhalation of chlorine/VOCs
- May aggravate asthma symptoms
- Potential respiratory irritation
⚕️ Long-Term Concerns
- Disinfection byproduct exposure
- Eczema flare-ups
- Cumulative contaminant absorption
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself from New York Water Contaminants
The good news: you don't have to accept whatever comes out of your New York showerhead. A quality shower filter can significantly reduce many of the contaminants found in your water.
Key contaminants a shower filter can help address:
- Arsenic — learn about health effects and removal
- Haloacetic acids (HAA9) — learn about health effects and removal
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) — learn about health effects and removal
- Chlorine — learn about health effects and removal
Additionally, understanding common symptoms can help you identify water quality issues:
💧 Recommended Shower Filtration for New York
Based on New York's water quality profile, we recommend a multi-stage filtration system. Afina's shower filters use KDF-55 and activated carbon to target chlorine, heavy metals, and other common contaminants found in New York water.
Afina Filtered Showerhead
Multi-stage filter built right into a high-pressure showerhead. No adapters needed.
Shop Now →Afina Shower Filter
Attach between your pipe and any showerhead. KDF-55 + activated carbon filtration.
Shop Now →Replacement Filter
Keep your filtration fresh. Replace every 2-3 months for optimal contaminant removal.
Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is New York tap water safe to shower in?
While New York tap water meets federal legal standards (MCLs), our analysis found 8 contaminants exceeding stricter EWG health guidelines. Federal limits don't always reflect the latest health research, so many health-conscious residents choose to add shower filtration for an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in New York water?
Based on EWG data, New York water contains up to 59 detected contaminants. The most notable include Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHXS), Arsenic, Haloacetic acids (HAA9). New York faces specific challenges with aging infrastructure and disinfection byproducts.
Does New York have hard water?
Many areas in New York have hard water. Mineral content varies by region but may contribute to dry skin, buildup on fixtures, and hair issues.
Do I need a shower filter in New York?
Given that New York water contains contaminants above EWG health guidelines, a shower filter may help reduce your exposure to chlorine, heavy metals, and disinfection byproducts. This is especially important if you experience dry skin, itchy scalp, or hair issues after showering.
How does New York water compare to the national average?
New York is in the Northeast region and faces water quality challenges common to the area, including aging infrastructure and disinfection byproducts. Some contaminants may be above national averages depending on your specific city and water source.
Data sourced from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database. This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: March 2026.
