Water Testing Services Market Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Global Industry Analysis: By Product (Microbiological Testing, Chemical Testing, Physical Testing, Radiological Testing), Water Source (Drinking Water, Wastewater, Groundwater, Surface Water, Industrial Process Water), End User (Municipal Bodies, Industrial, Environmental Agencies, Residential & Commercial Facilities) and Region Forecast 2020-2031

Water Testing Services Market size was valued at US$ 5,192.5 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 7,404.3 million by 2031, growing at a significant CAGR of 5.2% from 2025-2031. Moreover, the U.S. Water Testing Services Market is projected to grow at 5.2% CAGR by 2031. The market refers to the industry involved in the provision of testing solutions to assess the quality and safety of water. This includes the analysis of physical, chemical, and biological properties of water sources such as drinking water, wastewater, and natural water bodies. Water testing services ensure that water meets regulatory standards and is safe for consumption and environmental release. These services are crucial for detecting contaminants, pathogens, heavy metals, toxins, and other harmful substances that may pose risks to human health or the environment.

The market has witnessed significant growth due to increased concerns about water pollution, growing awareness regarding waterborne diseases, and stringent government regulations. As environmental issues and water quality concerns rise, demand for comprehensive water testing services from industries such as F&B, utilities, manufacturing, and agriculture is expected to increase over the forecast period. Technological advancements in water testing equipment, along with increased regulations related to environmental safety, have further boosted the market. Additionally, the rise in water treatment and management programs across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors is anticipated to fuel further market expansion in the coming years.

Facts and Figures

• Health Impact of Waterborne Diseases: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that at least 1.1 million people in the United States become ill each year due to germs in drinking water. This underscores the critical need for regular water testing to ensure public health safety. ?
• Prevalence of PFAS Contamination: A study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) revealed that at least 45% of U.S. tap water is contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals." These substances are linked to various health issues, including cancer and thyroid disease, highlighting the importance of comprehensive chemical testing in water services. ?
• Regulatory Standards for Water Contaminants: Utilities in the United States are mandated to test for over 90 contaminants in drinking water, as regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This extensive testing framework ensures that water quality meets safety standards and protects consumers from potential health hazards. ?
• Lead Exposure from Drinking Water: The EPA estimates that drinking water can contribute to 20% or more of a person's total exposure to lead. This statistic emphasizes the necessity for regular testing and monitoring of lead levels in water supplies to prevent lead-related health issues.

Key Developments:

• In September 2024, Eurofins provides a comprehensive range of routine and specialized testing services for both potable and non-potable water. Their testing methods adhere to EPA, SW-846, Standard Methods, and ASTM standards, supported by a robust quality assurance program. The company's extensive network of laboratories is certified by all applicable state programs, ensuring that the data they produce meets regulatory compliance requirements.
• In October 2023, the European Union initiated a public consultation on key implementations of the Drinking Water Directive. This directive is crucial for safeguarding the safety and quality of drinking water across the EU, ensuring that public water supplies meet stringent health and safety standards for all member states.

Water Testing Services Market segmentation:

Based on the testing type:

• Microbiological Testing
• Chemical Testing
• Physical Testing
• Radiological Testing

Chemical Testing is anticipated to lead the market due to its critical role in detecting a wide array of harmful contaminants and ensuring compliance with stringent water quality standards. Regulatory authorities across the globe have intensified their monitoring of chemical pollutants such as heavy metals, nitrates, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, which are frequently found in drinking and wastewater sources. This growing emphasis on identifying and mitigating chemical hazards is driving demand for high-precision chemical analysis. Furthermore, industries such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture are increasingly adopting chemical water testing services to meet discharge regulations and protect public health, solidifying its dominance in the market.

Based on the water source:

• Drinking Water
• Wastewater
• Groundwater
• Surface Water
• Industrial Process Water

Based on the water source, Drinking Water testing is expected to lead the market, owing to the critical importance of ensuring safe water for human consumption. Governments and health organizations worldwide have implemented rigorous standards to monitor and control the presence of contaminants such as pathogens, chemicals, and heavy metals in drinking water supplies. Public health concerns, especially after high-profile contamination incidents, have led to heightened awareness and proactive testing efforts. Urbanization and aging infrastructure in many developed and developing regions further amplify the risk of contamination, prompting frequent testing.

Moreover, growing consumer demand for transparency and accountability in water quality has driven municipalities and private providers to increase testing frequency and reliability. With both regulatory pressure and public expectation intensifying, drinking water testing remains the most prioritized and expanding segment in the global market.

Based on the end user:

• Municipal Bodies
• Industrial
  • Oil & Gas
  • Power
  • Chemicals
  • Food & Beverage
  • Pharmaceuticals
• Environmental Agencies
• Residential & Commercial Facilities

Based on the end user, Municipal Bodies are projected to be the leading segment in the market, primarily due to their central role in managing public water supply and sanitation systems. With rising urban populations and growing concerns about waterborne diseases, municipalities are under constant pressure to ensure that drinking water meets national and international safety standards. They are also responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes to prevent environmental contamination. Regulatory frameworks compel municipalities to conduct regular and comprehensive testing, including chemical, microbiological, and physical assessments.

Furthermore, increasing investments in urban water infrastructure and smart city projects are driving demand for advanced testing technologies. As governments place greater emphasis on sustainable water management, municipal bodies are becoming the primary users of both on-site and laboratory-based water testing services, making them the dominant force in the market’s growth trajectory.