Water Hardness in Cambridge, MA
Massachusetts · 4 zip codes · 30 matched water systems
City avg (weighted): 8 PPM
Dataset updated March 9, 202630 matched water systems in the city rollupIndividual systems and ZIPs can differ. Methodology
Is Cambridge, MA Water Hard or Soft?
The displayed hardness for Cambridge, MA is 8 PPM (0.5 GPG) from Mwra, classified as soft. The citywide weighted average is 8 PPM.
Water hardness is not a drinking-water safety score. It measures calcium and magnesium minerals, and address-level results can shift by pressure zone, supply blend, building plumbing, or private well.
How this city reading is built
This city reading is a weighted rollup across 30 matched water systems and 4 ZIP codes. Citywide readings are useful for comparison, but individual utility zones and ZIPs can differ.
Hardness is a mineral-content reading, not a drinking-water safety rating. Use it for scale, appliance, and softener decisions; check your utility report or test your tap before sizing treatment equipment. See how we calculate local readings.
Water Systems in Cambridge
These systems are matched to Cambridge, MA. Citywide readings are useful for comparison, but the system serving a specific address may differ from the city average.
| Water System | Source | Hardness | Pop. Served |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mwra MA6000000 | surface water | 8 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 123 PPM | |
| Boston Water And Sewer Commission (Mwra) MA3035000 | surface water | 8 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 54 PPM | |
| Cambridge Water Department MA3049000 | surface water | 8 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 79 PPM | |
| Lowell Regional Water Utility MA3160000 | surface water | 8 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 51 PPM | |
| Newton Water Dept. (Mwra) MA3207000 | surface water | 8 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 66 PPM |
Zip Codes in Cambridge, MA
What This Means For You
Use this city reading as a local planning estimate, not a final treatment specification. Hardness can vary by utility zone, seasonal blend, private well, and building plumbing. Confirm your tap reading with a utility report or home hardness test before sizing equipment.
Know your water hardness?
If you've tested your water or have your utility's CCR report, share your reading to help us improve accuracy for Cambridge, MA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the water in Cambridge, MA?
The citywide weighted average water hardness in Cambridge, MA is 8 PPM (0.5 GPG), classified as soft. This is based on 30 matched water systems.
Do I need a water softener in Cambridge, MA?
At 8 PPM, the citywide average is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.
Is hard water in Cambridge, MA safe to drink?
Water hardness itself is a mineral-content reading, not a drinking-water safety rating. Calcium and magnesium are naturally occurring minerals, but you should check your utility's Consumer Confidence Report for contaminant and compliance information.
How many water systems serve Cambridge, MA?
Cambridge, Massachusetts is served by 30 matched water systems across 4 zip codes.
Learn More About Your Water
Water Hardness Scale: PPM and GPG Chart
Use the USGS water hardness scale to compare PPM, GPG, and mg/L levels from soft to very hard water.
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Compare free lookups, soap tests, test strips, liquid drop kits, and lab tests for measuring water hardness.
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