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State Report

Water & Air Quality in Maryland

Regional composite data for PFAS, lead, and PM2.5 in Maryland. 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

3.4 ppt
85% of EPA 4 ppt limit
OK

Lead

7.2 ppb
48% of EPA 15 ppb action level
Elevated

PM2.5

8.9 µg/m³
99% of EPA 9 µg/m³ standard
OK

Maryland Context

Older row-home plumbing in Baltimore; PFAS detections at multiple military installations.

Check Your Specific ZIP Code in Maryland

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 Maryland ZIP 21217 →

Or go to the home page and enter any Maryland ZIP code.

What These Numbers Mean for Maryland Residents

PFAS in Maryland Drinking Water

Maryland'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 Maryland Tap Water

Lead contamination in Maryland averages 7.2 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 Maryland

Maryland's annual average PM2.5 is 8.9 µg/m³. This meets the EPA annual standard (9 µg/m³) but exceeds the stricter WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. A HEPA air purifier in sleeping areas is recommended, particularly for children and people with respiratory conditions.

Filtration Recommendations for Maryland

  • Lead concern: Any NSF 53-certified carbon block filter removes lead at the tap. An RO system covers both PFAS and lead. Shop Berkey →

Maryland Water & Air Resources

EWG Tap Water Database

Search Maryland utility test results for PFAS and other contaminants.

EPA AirNow

Real-time PM2.5 and AQI data for Maryland cities.

Consumer Confidence Reports

Your Maryland utility's annual water quality disclosure.

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.