Is Spring Water Better Than Indio Tap Water?

In Indio and across the Coachella Valley, residents are increasingly turning to spring water as a reliable, great-tasting alternative to tap water. Whether you’re trying to stay hydrated during the desert heat or want to avoid the taste of treated municipal water, spring water offers a natural, refreshing option.

Indio’s main water supply comes from the Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin, a naturally high-quality groundwater source that requires minimal treatment. While the city doesn’t have natural spring water feeding into the municipal system, the region is located near Desert Hot Springs, an area renowned for its mineral-rich natural springs.

So how does bottled spring water stack up against what comes from the tap? Let’s take a closer look.

Spring water comes from underground aquifers and surfaces naturally under pressure. It’s typically collected at the springhead or through artesian wells, preserving natural minerals like calcium and magnesium that contribute to its crisp taste.

These companies source from protected springs—such as those in the Mount Palomar region or other parts of Southern California—and deliver directly to homes and businesses in Indio.

For many, spring water feels like a more natural and satisfying way to stay hydrated—especially in a region where clean, cool water is essential year-round.

Indio’s water is drawn from the Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin, a vast aquifer beneath the desert that serves as the area’s primary drinking water source. Thanks to its depth and geology, this water is typically clean and mineral-rich.

Still, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), certain substances can appear in local groundwater due to:

The EWG has flagged contaminants in Indio’s water such as:

While these levels remain within legal EPA limits, some exceed the stricter health-based guidelines recommended by the EWG. For residents who are health-conscious or sensitive to the taste or smell of treated water, spring water or advanced filtration may offer greater peace of mind.

In a desert climate where hydration is critical, the quality and consistency of drinking water matter. Here’s why many Indio residents are opting for spring water:

From golf course communities to family homes, spring water delivery is helping Coachella Valley residents stay refreshed with minimal effort.

If bottled delivery isn’t your preferred choice, home water filtration systems are a great way to ensure high-quality water right from the tap.

Reverse osmosis (RO) systems remove contaminants through a multi-stage process, including sediment and carbon filters followed by a semipermeable membrane. The result is clean, great-tasting water—ideal for everyday hydration, cooking, and baby formula.

Culligan of Indio also offers deionized water, which goes through both reverse osmosis and ion exchange to eliminate nearly all dissolved solids.

Benefits of these systems include:

Whether you want to fill up your reusable bottle or keep your kitchen stocked, filtration gives you control over your water quality.