Can I Drink Tap Water in Miami?

Miami-Dade County publishes annual water quality reports and consumer information for its drinking water system. The system relies on South Florida groundwater (primarily the Biscayne Aquifer) and delivers EPA-regulated tap water that is safe for most travelers to drink. The main difference visitors notice is taste: Miami water is often harder and more mineral-forward than water in some northern U.S. cities.

Miami-area tap water is supplied through a large, regulated municipal system overseen by Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD), which publishes annual water quality reports on the county website. These reports provide the standard U.S. Consumer Confidence Report framework, including treatment, regulated contaminants, and compliance disclosures. The local source is groundwater (primarily the Biscayne Aquifer), which contributes to the city's characteristic mineral profile and harder taste compared with some surface-water systems. For travelers, Miami is generally a safe tap-water city for drinking, brushing teeth, and restaurant use, including ice in normal hospitality settings. The most common complaint is taste rather than safety. In older buildings or after long stagnation, flushing the tap briefly improves taste and reduces the chance of picking up metallic notes from premise plumbing. Bottled water is optional and widely available, but not required for health in most situations.

Miami is a low-risk city for tap water. Travelers can usually drink tap water directly in hotels and apartments, use it for brushing teeth, and accept ice in restaurants without concern. The heat and humidity make hydration more important than sourcing bottled water. If you prefer a cleaner taste, use a carbon filter or chilled tap water.