North America
San Francisco
United States of America
Quick Answer
Tap water is safe to drink.
Traveling to San Francisco? Stay Hydrated Safely
Even in safe destinations, a portable water filter gives you peace of mind for your adventures.
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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.
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
Most city water comes from the Hetch Hetchy watershed in the Sierra Nevada delivered via the regional aqueduct system, with local reservoirs and groundwater as supplements; water is filtered and disinfected (commonly using chloramine) before distribution. The system is regularly tested and meets US and state drinking-water standards.
Travel Safety Information
Pickpocket Risk
Moderate
Night Safety
Caution
Scam Risk
Moderate
English Level
Native
Best Time to Visit
September to November (warmest and clearest); May to October also generally pleasant
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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.
Washington DC
United States of America
Washington, D.C. tap water is treated and generally safe to drink; however, in older buildings with lead service lines (or if pregnant/with infants) use a certified filter or bottled water. Run cold tap for ~30 seconds if water has been sitting.