Water Hardness in Durham, NC
North Carolina · 6 zip codes · 11 matched water systems
City avg (weighted): 35 PPM
Dataset updated March 9, 202611 matched water systems in the city rollupIndividual systems and ZIPs can differ. Methodology
Is Durham, NC Water Hard or Soft?
The displayed hardness for Durham, NC is 35 PPM (2 GPG) from Durham, City Of, classified as soft. The citywide weighted average is 35 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 11 matched water systems and 6 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 Durham
These systems are matched to Durham, NC. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durham, City Of NC0332010 | surface water | 35 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 39 PPM | |
| Hardscrabble S/D NC0332139 | groundwater | 35 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 56 PPM | |
| Crown Mhp NC0241112 | groundwater | 35 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 49 PPM | |
| Whispering Pines Mhp NC0332106 | groundwater | 35 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 49 PPM | |
| Winstead Mobile Terrace NC0433120 | groundwater | 35 PPM SoftUSGS estimate: 49 PPM |
Zip Codes in Durham, NC
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 Durham, NC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is the water in Durham, NC?
The citywide weighted average water hardness in Durham, NC is 35 PPM (2 GPG), classified as soft. This is based on 11 matched water systems.
Do I need a water softener in Durham, NC?
At 35 PPM, the citywide average is relatively soft. A water softener is generally not necessary.
Is hard water in Durham, NC 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 Durham, NC?
Durham, North Carolina is served by 11 matched water systems across 6 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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