Minnesota is known for its abundant fresh water, but not all tap water is created equal. We analyzed water quality data from public water systems across the state to identify the cities with the cleanest, safest drinking water. Whether you're considering a move or just curious how your city stacks up, here's what we found.
2025 Top 5 at a Glance
How We Rank Water Quality
Our water quality scores are based on analysis of publicly available data from Minnesota public water systems. We evaluate four key factors that have the greatest impact on drinking water safety:
Lead Levels
The most heavily weighted factor due to lead's serious health effects. Lower is better—there's no safe level of lead exposure.
Nitrate Levels
Important for infant health. Cities with agricultural runoff often have higher nitrate—we reward cities that keep levels low.
PFAS Detection
"Forever chemicals" are a growing concern. Cities with no PFAS detected score higher than those with detections.
Violation History
Cities with clean EPA compliance records demonstrate consistent quality control and operational excellence.
The Top 10 Cities for Water Quality
Here's our complete top 10 list for 2025, with details on what makes each city's water exceptional:
Minneapolis' Woodlyn Court water system leads the state with near-perfect scores across all categories. With lead levels well below the action level, no PFAS detected, and a spotless compliance record, Minneapolis proves that major cities can deliver exceptional water quality.
This southeast metro suburb consistently delivers excellent water quality. Eagan benefits from well-protected groundwater sources and modern distribution infrastructure.
Despite being in Washington County—an area affected by historical PFAS contamination—Woodbury has maintained excellent water quality through proactive treatment and monitoring programs.
A west metro leader in water quality, Eden Prairie has invested in advanced treatment technology and source water protection to maintain consistently high standards.
Plymouth combines excellent groundwater sources with modern infrastructure, resulting in water quality that consistently exceeds state averages.
Also in the Top 10:
What Top Cities Have in Common
Looking at the top performers, several common factors emerge that contribute to excellent water quality:
Key Success Factors
- Modern Infrastructure: Updated water mains and minimal lead service lines prevent contamination in distribution
- Protected Source Water: Wellhead protection programs and land use controls keep contaminants out of groundwater
- Advanced Treatment: Investment in treatment technology beyond minimum requirements
- Regular Monitoring: Testing beyond EPA requirements allows early detection of emerging issues
- Low Industrial Impact: Distance from major industrial contamination sources, especially for PFAS
Regional Patterns
Our analysis reveals interesting patterns across different regions of Minnesota:
West Metro: Consistently Strong
Cities in the western Twin Cities metro—Plymouth, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Maple Grove—consistently score well. These areas benefit from well-protected groundwater aquifers and newer infrastructure developed as the suburbs expanded in recent decades. View West Metro rankings →
East Metro: Mixed Results
The eastern metro shows more variation. While cities like Woodbury and Eagan score excellently, some communities in Washington County have had to invest heavily in PFAS treatment due to historical 3M contamination. The good news is that treatment has been effective where implemented. View East Metro rankings →
Greater Minnesota: Variable
Outside the metro, water quality varies significantly. Some smaller communities have excellent water from deep aquifers, while others struggle with nitrate from agricultural runoff or aging infrastructure. Rural areas often face different challenges than urban centers.
How Does Your City Compare?
Not in the top 10? That doesn't mean your water is unsafe. Most Minnesota communities meet EPA standards—they just don't score quite as high as the leaders. The important thing is to know what's actually in your water so you can make informed decisions.
Our water quality tool lets you instantly check your city's data, including:
- Overall score and letter grade
- Specific lead, nitrate, and PFAS levels
- Comparison to state averages
- Any EPA violations on record
- Recommendations based on your city's specific issues
You can also compare multiple cities side by side if you're considering a move or just curious how your city stacks up against neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Minnesota city has the cleanest tap water?
Based on our 2025 analysis, Minneapolis (specifically the Woodlyn Court water system) ranks #1 with a score of 99 out of 100. It has low lead levels, no PFAS detected, and no EPA violations.
What makes some Minnesota cities have better water quality?
Cities with the best water quality typically share common factors: modern infrastructure with minimal lead pipes, proactive source water protection, advanced treatment facilities, and no nearby industrial contamination sources. Many top-ranked cities also invest in going beyond minimum EPA requirements.
How are the water quality rankings calculated?
Our rankings are based on four key factors: lead levels (40% weight), nitrate levels (30% weight), PFAS detection (20% weight), and EPA violation history (10% weight). Cities are scored 0-100 based on how well they perform in each category.
Is Twin Cities tap water safe to drink?
Yes, both Minneapolis and St. Paul have good water quality overall. Minneapolis consistently ranks among the top cities in the state. However, water quality can vary by neighborhood due to differences in household plumbing, so checking your specific area is recommended.
What if my city isn't in the top rankings?
A city not being in the top 10 doesn't necessarily mean unsafe water—it just means other cities scored higher. Most Minnesota cities meet EPA standards. Use our water quality tool to check your specific city's data and see what contaminants, if any, are concerns in your area.
Where Does Your City Rank?
Check your city's water quality score and see how it compares to the top performers