Water & Air Quality in Illinois
Regional composite data for PFAS, lead, and PM2.5 in Illinois. Values are derived from EPA UCMR 5, EWG Tap Water Database, and AirNow annual averages. Check your specific ZIP code below for localized results.
PFAS
Lead
PM2.5
Illinois Context
Chicago has the most lead service lines of any U.S. city; downstate PM2.5 also elevated.
Check Your Specific ZIP Code in Illinois
State averages mask wide local variation. Your ZIP code may be significantly cleaner or more contaminated than the state composite — especially near industrial sites, military bases, or older housing stock.
Audit Illinois ZIP 60606 →Or go to the home page and enter any Illinois ZIP code.
What These Numbers Mean for Illinois Residents
PFAS in Illinois Drinking Water
Illinois's regional PFAS composite is 3.4 parts per trillion (ppt), which is at or below the EPA's 2024 enforceable limit of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. That said, the EPA limit reflects what's technically achievable — the agency's health goal is zero, and any PFAS exposure carries some risk given their persistence in the body.
Lead in Illinois Tap Water
Lead contamination in Illinois averages 7.8 ppb at the 90th percentile. This is at or above concerning levels. Homes built before 1986 face the highest risk from lead service lines and solder. An NSF 53-certified under-sink filter or reverse osmosis system removes lead at the tap.
PM2.5 Air Quality in Illinois
Illinois's annual average PM2.5 is 9.6 µg/m³. This exceeds the EPA annual standard of 9 µg/m³. Long-term PM2.5 at this level is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality (Pope & Dockery). A high-CADR HEPA purifier in your main living and sleeping areas is strongly recommended.
Filtration Recommendations for Illinois
- Lead concern: Any NSF 53-certified carbon block filter removes lead at the tap. An RO system covers both PFAS and lead. Shop Berkey →
- PM2.5 concern: Blueair Blue Pure 211i Max (HEPA, 635 sq ft) is the top value pick for PM2.5 reduction. Shop Blueair →
Illinois Water & Air Resources
Want to go deeper? Read our evidence-based articles on PFAS health effects, water filter comparisons, and PM2.5 air quality. Or audit your specific ZIP code for localized results.