New York City
New York City, NY water profile — supply sources, drought status, wastewater reuse, and the key water issues facing the city.
New York City, NY is one of the largest cities in the United States, with a population near 8,175,133 and the largest community in New York. Like much of New York, New York City draws its water primarily from Catskill/Delaware watersheds, Great Lakes, and aquifers.
New York City's water outlook is shaped most by aging infrastructure — the issue that dominates planning across New York. NYC's protected upstate watershed delivers unfiltered water, but upstate systems face PFAS (notably Hoosick Falls) and aging mains.
New York City sits in a state that reuses roughly 3% of treated wastewater (minimal programs) and currently experiences abnormally dry to moderate drought.
For the bigger picture, see the New York state water profile and the related issues below.
At a glance
- Population ~8,175,133 (largest in New York)
- Primary sources: Catskill/Delaware watersheds, Great Lakes, and aquifers
- Drought: abnormally dry to moderate conditions
- State reuse rate: ~3% of wastewater
Statewide drought history
% of New York in severe+ drought (Moderate (D1) now).
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor
Common questions
Is tap water safe in New York City?
New York City is served by community water systems regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Statewide, 16.2% of New York's systems have a recent health-based violation. Check your provider's annual Consumer Confidence Report for local results.
Where does New York City get its water?
New York City draws from the same regional sources that serve New York: Catskill/Delaware watersheds, Great Lakes, aquifers.
Related water issues
Aging Infrastructure
Much of America's water infrastructure is decades past its design life, leaking trillions of gallons a year and demanding hundreds of billions in reinvestment.
ExplorePFAS Contamination
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances persist in water supplies for decades. New federal limits are forcing utilities nationwide to invest in advanced treatment.
Explore