Medina County, Ohio: drinking water report. Medina County in northeastern Ohio has a population of about 185,000, positioned between Cleveland, Akron, and…
Medina County in northeastern Ohio has a population of about 185,000, positioned between Cleveland, Akron, and the rural farmland of Wayne County. Water sources split between municipal systems – some purchasing from Akron or the City of Medina – and a large number of private wells serving the county's suburban-rural fringe. The transition zone between suburban development and active agriculture creates water quality challenges at the property line.
Medina County's private wells face both agricultural and septic system contamination. According to the Ohio EPA's 2024 private well testing summary, 12% of wells tested in the county exceeded the nitrate MCL of 10 mg/L. Septic system density in unincorporated areas without sewer service contributes bacteria and nitrogen to shallow groundwater, particularly in areas with clay soils that impede proper septic function.
The EPA's UCMR5 data shows low-level PFAS detections in the City of Medina's system. Medina County Airport has used AFFF firefighting foam, and PFAS has been detected in monitoring wells in the vicinity. A 2024 Ohio EPA report noted one public water system in the county with PFAS above the state's action level.
The divide between municipal and well water in Medina County is the biggest determinant of your water quality. Municipal systems test regularly and treat accordingly. Private wells do not, and the burden falls entirely on the homeowner.
Check your water for available monitoring data. If you are on a private well, baseline testing for nitrate, bacteria, and PFAS is a reasonable starting point. Our water filter guide covers options for well-water households. Pull your detailed report for any available trend data, and visit our Ohio page for statewide context.