Water & Air Quality in Tennessee
Regional composite data for PFAS, lead, and PM2.5 in Tennessee. 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
Tennessee Context
Mountain valleys trap PM2.5; PFAS detections concentrated in Memphis aquifer area.
Check Your Specific ZIP Code in Tennessee
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 Tennessee ZIP 37201 →Or go to the home page and enter any Tennessee ZIP code.
What These Numbers Mean for Tennessee Residents
PFAS in Tennessee Drinking Water
Tennessee's regional PFAS composite is 2.8 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 Tennessee Tap Water
Lead contamination in Tennessee averages 4.4 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 Tennessee
Tennessee's annual average PM2.5 is 9.2 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 Tennessee
- 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 →
Tennessee 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.