WH

Water Hardness in 21901

North East, Maryland · Cecil County

160 PPM
9.4 GPG
Moderately Hard
0Soft60120180300+
High Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Dataset updated March 9, 2026Matched to 5 water systemsTap readings can vary by utility zone, treatment, and plumbing. Methodology

Source context

How this ZIP reading is built

This ZIP reading is built from 5 matched water systems. When more than one system is matched, the displayed value is weighted toward larger known service populations when that data is available.

Source basis
3 USGS-backed sources
5 matched systems total for this ZIP; USGS monitoring is used where treated-water reports are unavailable.
Water source profile
Primarily surface water
Surface-water hardness can shift with reservoirs, runoff, season, and treatment. This profile is weighted by known population served across matched systems.
Data recency
March 9, 2026
Dataset rebuilt March 9, 2026; individual utility reporting years can vary.

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 Serving 21901

These are the systems matched to this ZIP code. The displayed ZIP value is weighted toward larger known service populations when population data is available.

5 water systems
PWSID is the public water system identifier. Data Source shows whether the hardness value comes from a treated-water report, USGS monitoring, or a local estimate; source year is shown when available.
Town Of Elkton
MD0070011
Slightly Hard
97 PPMsurface water15,625 servedEstimated - County Avg
Town Of North East
MD0070016
Very Hard
265 PPMsurface water8,600 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Town & Country Mobile Home Park
MD0070235
Very Hard
265 PPMgroundwater950 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring
Crystal Beach Manor/T&C Utility
MD0070008
Slightly Hard
97 PPMgroundwater500 servedEstimated - County Avg
Cecilton Manor Mobile Home Park
MD0070236
Very Hard
265 PPMgroundwater60 servedHigh Confidence - USGS Monitoring

Nearby Zip Codes

21914972190313421902116219041092192187219209721911972191597219179721078107210051072191998

What This Means For You

Use this ZIP 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.

MethodologyData sourcesHow to test your water

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 North East, MD (21901).

Submit Your Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water hard in North East, MD (21901)?

The average water hardness in 21901 is 160 PPM (9.4 GPG), which is classified as moderately hard.

Do I need a water softener in 21901?

With hardness of 160 PPM, a water softener is worth considering for homes in 21901.

Is hard water in 21901 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 21901?

Zip code 21901 in North East, Maryland is served by 5 water systems.

Learn More About Your Water

How to Test Water Hardness at Home

Compare free lookups, soap tests, test strips, liquid drop kits, and lab tests for measuring water hardness.

8 min read

Hard Water vs Soft Water: Key Differences

Compare hard water and soft water by minerals, taste, soap lather, skin, hair, plumbing, and treatment needs.

10 min read

PPM to GPG Converter + Water Hardness Scale Explained

Convert between PPM and GPG instantly. Understand the USGS water hardness scale and what your numbers mean for your home.

5 min read