Water & Air Quality in North Carolina
Regional composite data for PFAS, lead, and PM2.5 in North Carolina. 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
North Carolina Context
Chemours Cape Fear (GenX) plume drives statewide PFAS averages well above the EPA MCL.
Check Your Specific ZIP Code in North Carolina
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 North Carolina ZIP 28401 →Or go to the home page and enter any North Carolina ZIP code.
What These Numbers Mean for North Carolina Residents
PFAS in North Carolina Drinking Water
North Carolina's regional PFAS composite is 8.4 parts per trillion (ppt), which exceeds the EPA's 2024 enforceable limit of 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS. Water utilities in North Carolina have until 2029 to comply. In the interim, a point-of-use reverse osmosis filter (NSF 58 certified) removes 95%+ of PFAS at the tap.
Lead in North Carolina Tap Water
Lead contamination in North Carolina averages 3.8 ppb at the 90th percentile. This is within the EPA's action level but above the zero health goal. Lead pipes in pre-1986 homes remain the primary risk factor — consider an NSF 53-certified filter as a precaution.
PM2.5 Air Quality in North Carolina
North Carolina's annual average PM2.5 is 8.4 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 North Carolina
- PFAS concern: AquaTru Countertop RO (NSF 58) removes >95% of PFAS — the most effective countertop option. Shop AquaTru →
- Lead concern: Any NSF 53-certified carbon block filter removes lead at the tap. An RO system covers both PFAS and lead. Shop Berkey →
North Carolina 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.