Indianapolis hard water: 19 grains per gallon
Indianapolis tap water is very hard: about 19 grains per gallon (317 ppm) on average. That figure comes from Citizens Energy Group's 2025 water quality report (PDF, opens in new tab). Across the system it ranges from 8.7 to 27 grains per gallon.
Indianapolis water hardness
Grains per gallon, from Citizens Energy Group's 2025 water quality report. Sacramento river water shown for comparison.
Why does Indianapolis hardness vary so much?
Citizens supplies the city from several treatment plants. Some treat surface water from the White River and Fall Creek, and some treat groundwater. The report says hardness depends on the source water that feeds each plant. That is why one neighborhood can be under 10 grains per gallon and another over 25.
Citizens says you can call 317-924-3311 to find the typical hardness at your address. A test at your tap works too.
What 19 grains per gallon means at home
- Heavy white scale on faucets, shower heads and tubs
- Spotty, cloudy dishes
- Water heaters and dishwashers that need more upkeep
- Soap scum that keeps coming back
Do you need a water softener in Indianapolis?
For most homes, yes. At an average of 19 grains per gallon, a softener makes a clear difference in scale, cleaning and appliance life. Because hardness varies so much by area, the right size depends on your own number. Get your tap tested before you buy.
See what a softener costs, or compare it with drinking water filters in reverse osmosis vs. a water softener.
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Book my free water testCommon questions
Is Indianapolis water hard?
Yes, very. Citizens Energy Group's 2025 report lists an average hardness of 317 ppm, or 19 grains per gallon, for Indianapolis and Morgan County, with a range of 8.7 to 27 grains per gallon.
How do I find the hardness at my Indianapolis address?
Citizens says hardness varies by which treatment plant serves you, and you can call 317-924-3311 for the typical hardness at your address. A test at your tap also gives you your exact number.
What softener setting should I use in Indianapolis?
Start from your own tap's number. The city average is about 19 grains per gallon, but some areas are much lower or higher, so test before you set it.
Keep reading
DataWater hardness by cityHow hard the tap water is in US cities, from each utility report.
City dataLas Vegas hard water: how hard is it?About 16 grains per gallon. Very hard.
GuideHow much does a water softener cost installed?Installed price ranges, running costs, and what drives the price.
GuideReverse osmosis vs. water softener: which one do you need?They do different jobs. Here is how to pick.