North America
Madison
United States of America
Quick Answer
Tap water is safe to drink.
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Madison tap water is municipally treated and safe to drink — you can use it for drinking, cooking, and brushing teeth. If you prefer, bring a small filter or buy bottled water for taste preferences.
Tap Water Usage Guide
Brush Teeth
Yes
Ice Cubes
Safe
Wash Fruit
Yes
Shower
Yes
Restaurants
Varies (often available on request)
Locals Drink
Yes (commonly)
Water Quality Score
Water Quality
Good
Water Source
Madison draws its drinking water primarily from surface sources (notably Lake Mendota) and treats it at municipal treatment facilities using standard processes (coagulation, filtration and disinfection); the City routinely tests and monitors quality.
Travel Safety Information
Pickpocket Risk
Low
Night Safety
Mostly safe
Scam Risk
Low
English Level
Native
Best Time to Visit
May to October
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View on Amazon→Other Cities in United States of America
New York City
United States of America
New York City tap water is generally safe to drink, so most visitors can drink, brush teeth, and refill bottles from the tap. If you are staying in an older building with old plumbing, consider using a simple lead filter or bottled water as a precaution.
Los Angeles
United States of America
Los Angeles tap water is treated and generally safe to drink, but it can taste chlorinated and is fairly hard; use a small filter or bottled water if you’re sensitive to taste or have a weak stomach.
Chicago
United States of America
Chicago tap water is treated and generally safe to drink, but if you’re staying in an older building or are pregnant/immunocompromised consider using a short-term pitcher or NSF-certified filter or bottled water.
San Francisco
United States of America
San Francisco tap water is treated and safe to drink straight from the tap; if you prefer, use a simple carbon filter for taste or to reduce trace chloramine. Bottled water is widely available if you prefer it.