Best Whole-House Water Filters Under $500

A low cost starter system for chlorinated city water in a small home.

A low cost first whole-house filter for city water with chlorine taste. Expect to change filters several times a year.

A lower priced three stage big blue system for city water. Running cost is hard to judge without a gallon rating.

A certified, low mess choice for city water with chlorine, for owners who would rather pay more per cartridge than handle filters.

A sensible upgrade on the WGB21B for a family on chlorinated city water, with filters that last longer and cost little per gallon.

The AP903 with scale inhibitor added, for city water that is both chlorinated and hard.

For a larger house on city water that wants more carbon than a two stage system. The three filter set costs more to replace.

A bare bones single filter housing for sediment and chlorine taste at the lowest price. It suits small budgets and light use.

A tidy, frame mounted three stage system for city water with some grit. Its certification claim is vague.

For homes worried about lead pipes or with chloramine treated water. The lead claim is not certified, so test the water if lead is the main concern.

A cartridge system built for chloramine treated city water, with a longer warranty than most at this price.

For a smaller home where PFAS in the water is the main worry. Its low flow rating suits one or two bathrooms.

A certified, maintenance light tank for a small or medium home on chlorinated city water.