Is The Gulf Coast’s Tap Water Safe To Drink?

Florida’s Gulf Coast has a lot going for it—warm weather, stunning beaches, and thriving cities like Clearwater, Largo, New Port Richey, and St. Petersburg. But as residents enjoy the perks of coastal living, many don’t realize what might be hiding in their tap water.

Your water is treated before it reaches your home—but that doesn’t mean it’s contaminant-free. In fact, recent reports from both municipal utilities and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reveal a wide range of pollutants in the local supplies of water within the United States. These include both naturally occurring elements and man-made chemicals—many of which exceed health-based guidelines, even if they’re technically “legal.”

Let’s explore what’s really in the Gulf Coast water supply, why it matters, and how you can protect your home.

If you live in Pinellas or Pasco County, your tap water likely comes from a blend of groundwater wells and surface water collected from nearby rivers or reservoirs. It’s processed and disinfected by local municipalities like St. Petersburg Utilities or Port Richey Water Department, which work hard to meet state and federal safety standards.

But even with advanced water treatment found within the United States, contaminants still make their way in—through urban runoff, aging pipes, agricultural drainage, and other local factors.

HAA5s are byproducts of disinfecting water with chlorine. These acids form when the chlorine reacts with decaying organic matter in rivers, lakes, or groundwater.

Elevated levels of HAA5 is linked to cancer and potential damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.

In St. Petersburg, HAA5 reached 20.4 ppb—over 200× the EWG guideline of 0.1 ppb.

Install a granular activated carbon filter or reverse osmosis system to reduce these compounds.

Another chlorine byproduct, TTHMs are common in chlorinated water systems and are tied closely to seasonal changes in temperature and organic matter levels.

Long-term exposure may increase cancer risk and cause liver or neurological issues.

Reported at 20.7 ppb in St. Petersburg. EWG’s limit: 0.15 ppb.

Both carbon filtration and RO units help lower TTHM levels.

A naturally occurring element found in Florida’s aquifers—especially in groundwater systems serving areas like Clearwater and Largo.

Chronic ingestion can lead to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and developmental delays.

Clearwater water contains elevated levels of Arsenic at 3.01 ppb—753× higher than the EWG’s health guideline of 0.004 ppb.

Culligan’s arsenic-targeted RO systems are highly effective.

This heavy metal often enters water through industrial waste or mineral runoff.

Toxic to kidneys and linked to increased cancer risk.

Reverse osmosis is your best line of defense.

Nitrate pollution often stems from fertilizer and livestock waste, which seeps into groundwater after heavy rainfall.

St. Pete reported 0.444 ppm, while the EWG’s health goal is just 0.14 ppm.

Dangerous for infants and pregnant women, and may cause developmental problems.

Use ion exchange or reverse osmosis systems to minimize nitrate levels.

Common across the Gulf Coast, hard water carries high amounts of calcium and magnesium—minerals that don’t harm health but are tough on pipes and skin.

A Culligan water softener replaces hardness minerals with sodium or potassium ions.

Even with modern treatment methods, contaminants can still make their way into drinking water systems—especially in coastal regions. On the Gulf Coast of Florida, several environmental conditions and infrastructure-related factors contribute to rising pollution levels.

Here’s a look at what’s putting pressure on your local water supply.

Many Gulf Coast cities, including Clearwater and New Port Richey, operate with older water systems. Corroding pipes can leach metals or allow contaminants to seep in, especially during repairs or main breaks.

Stormwater picks up oil, fertilizer, and heavy metals from roads, yards, and parking lots—especially after a heavy Florida rain. This urban runoff can carry those pollutants straight into drinking water sources.

Hurricane season around gulf shores in the United States isn’t just a coastal concern—it’s a water safety issue. Flooded water treatment facilities and breached sewers can lead to bacterial and chemical contamination.

Many water contaminants in the United States—like chromium-6 or HAA5—have no updated federal limits in place. So while your Gulf Coast water may meet legal standards, it still might not meet modern safety expectations.

Rural areas outside Gulf Coast towns often use heavy fertilizers and pesticides. These chemicals leach into local aquifers that supply water to homes across Clearwater, Largo, and Port Richey.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to clean water. With so many filter options available today, it’s important to choose a system that targets the specific contaminants found in your area. Across the United States, local water quality can vary widely—even from one neighborhood to the next. If you live along Florida’s Gulf Coast, here’s how to make sure your home’s water is as safe and refreshing as it should be.

Filters every tap in your house to remove a wide range of contaminants—especially disinfection byproducts and metals. These systems are ideal if you want protection beyond just your kitchen sink, offering cleaner water for showers, laundry, and even brushing your teeth. Plus, whole-home filtration can improve the smell and taste of your water across the board.

These under-sink systems eliminate up to 99% of pollutants, including arsenic, nitrates, chromium-6, and pesticides. They’re compact, powerful, and perfect for families who want a dedicated source of exceptionally clean drinking and cooking water. Culligan’s RO systems are customizable and easy to maintain with professional service.

Great for reducing scale and improving skin, hair, and appliance lifespan—especially in hard water areas of the Gulf Coast. A water softener can extend the life of your water heater, dishwasher, and plumbing system while helping your soaps and detergents work better. It’s a smart upgrade for anyone dealing with hard water stains or dry skin.

Filtered on demand, directly from your home’s water line—perfect for busy households or office spaces. These dispensers reduce plastic waste and the hassle of refilling jugs, while still delivering cold, clean, and great-tasting water. They’re a modern, space-saving alternative to traditional bottled water coolers.

Clean, safe water is something every household on Florida’s Gulf Coast deserves—but it’s clear that even treated tap water can carry hidden risks. Whether you’re in Clearwater, Largo, New Port Richey, or St. Petersburg, staying informed and proactive is key to protecting your home and health. From understanding local contaminants to choosing the right filter options, you have the power to take control of your water quality. Ready to get started? Schedule your free water test with a local Culligan expert and find out what’s really in your water.