Legionella Testing Market is estimated to be valued at USD 368.5 Mn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 652.3 Mn in 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of8.5% from 2025 to 2032.
The Global Legionella Testing Market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by growing concerns about waterborne diseases and the need for stringent water safety regulations. The market has responded with a range of testing solutions, including both traditional culture-based methods and advanced molecular techniques that offer quicker and more accurate results. Additionally, the evolving landscape of environmental regulations has further bolstered the demand for Legionella testing services as businesses seek to comply with standards aimed at preventing outbreaks and safeguarding public health.
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Description and Impact |
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Aging Building Infrastructure Crisis in Developed Nations (Regional) |
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Regulatory Harmonization and Tightening (Macro-Level) |
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Technological Advancement in Rapid Testing Methods (Nano-Level) |
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Legionella testing prices vary widely by method, turnaround time, and region. Rapid tests such as lateral flow immunoassays cost $25–45, while culture-based methods range from $45–120 per sample depending on speed and detail. PCR-based molecular diagnostics are more expensive, typically $85–250, with multiplex panels at the higher end. ATP-based screening remains the most economical at $15–35. Regional differences are notable: North America commands premium pricing ($75–150 per sample), Europe ranges $65–125 depending on country, and emerging markets show lower costs but rising demand as safety standards align with global regulations.
By application, the environmental testing segment is projected to dominate the global Legionella testing market in 2025, capturing around 67% of total market share. Rising regulatory pressure on water safety in hospitals, hotels, industrial plants, and public facilities is driving demand for routine monitoring. Companies are increasingly partnering with environmental agencies and deploying advanced water diagnostics to strengthen compliance and outbreak prevention.
For instance, in August 2025, the New York City Department of Health proposed new rules requiring building owners to test cooling tower water for Legionella every 30 days during operational periods tightening the existing 90-day rule to reduce outbreak risks.
By test type, the culture method holds the largest share due to its high specificity and ability to isolate live Legionella bacteria, though it requires longer turnaround times. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is emerging as a preferred method thanks to its speed, sensitivity, and ability to detect Legionella DNA even in complex environmental samples. Other tests, including the Urinary Antigen Test (UAT), are widely adopted in clinical settings for rapid patient diagnosis, while Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) tests and other methods continue to support specialized applications.
For instance, in June 2025, MyMichigan Medical Center announced it had detected low levels of Legionella in its hospital water supply. In response, the facility intensified testing protocols, installed additional filters, and worked with health authorities to safeguard patients and staff.
By sample type, water samples represent the largest segment, as they remain the primary source for Legionella monitoring across healthcare facilities, cooling towers, and industrial water systems. Biofilm samples are gaining prominence due to their role as bacterial reservoirs in plumbing systems, while swab samples are increasingly used for localized contamination assessments. Together, these sample types provide a comprehensive framework for Legionella risk management.
For instance, in June 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs issued a formal solicitation for quarterly Legionella water testing services across multiple locations of the Orlando VA Healthcare System. The effort includes both scheduled and unscheduled retests, reflecting a strong, structured commitment to water safety.
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North America is estimated to hold a dominant position with a 44.3% market share in 2025, supported by stringent regulatory frameworks, advanced testing infrastructure, and proactive public health measures. The U.S. leads the market, benefiting from strong guidance issued by the CDC and ASHRAE for Legionella risk management in building water systems.
Canadian Water Compliance is urging Toronto property owners and managers to prioritize Legionella and lead testing this summer, as higher temperatures and increased water use create ideal conditions for Legionella growth and lead contamination in aging pipes.
Europe is the second-largest market, projected to account for a 29.1% share in 2025. The region benefits from EU directives on water quality and safety, along with country-specific testing mandates. Nations such as Germany, France, and Italy are actively strengthening water monitoring programs in healthcare facilities, hospitality, and public buildings.
For instance, in February 2025, Italy’s Ministry of Health issued updated national guidelines for Legionella prevention and control, mandating routine water testing in healthcare and community facilities, aligning with EU risk management frameworks.
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market, expected to capture a 20.2% share in 2025. Growth is driven by rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and rising government emphasis on waterborne disease prevention. China, Japan, and Australia are leading adopters of advanced water testing strategies, particularly in cooling towers and healthcare facilities.
For instance, in July 2025, Australia’s National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) updated its Guidelines for Managing Legionella in Health and Aged Care Facilities, mandating preventive water and biofilm testing programs to protect at-risk populations.
The U.S. is the primary driver of the North American market, supported by strict compliance requirements under CDC guidelines and ASHRAE Standard 188 for building water systems. Hospitals, hotels, and industrial facilities have widely adopted routine testing to mitigate Legionella risks.
For instance, in June 2025, the Orlando VA Healthcare System contracted quarterly Legionella water testing services, including both scheduled and unscheduled monitoring, reinforcing national infection-prevention standards
Germany has one of the most stringent water safety frameworks in Europe, with regulations under the German Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV) requiring routine Legionella testing in multi-dwelling buildings, hospitals, and nursing homes.
For instance, in April 2025, Hamburg’s city government expanded its municipal Legionella monitoring initiative, offering subsidized water testing services for public housing facilities to support compliance with federal standards.
France is actively reinforcing Legionella surveillance programs in hospitals and long-term care facilities, supported by national health agencies. Public health authorities emphasize proactive testing as part of infection control.
For instance, in March 2025, Santé Publique France launched a nationwide awareness and testing campaign, urging healthcare facilities to implement proactive Legionella monitoring under updated EU water safety guidance.
China is a leading growth market in Asia-Pacific, driven by large-scale urbanization and the prevalence of industrial cooling towers. Municipalities and hospitals are adopting advanced testing technologies to align with global water safety practices.
For instance, in May 2025, Shanghai’s Municipal Health Commission announced expanded water safety inspections, including mandatory Legionella testing in high-risk facilities such as hospitals, schools, and industrial complexes.
| Report Coverage | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2024 | Market Size in 2025: | USD 368.5 Mn |
| Historical Data for: | 2020 To 2024 | Forecast Period: | 2025 To 2032 |
| Forecast Period 2025 to 2032 CAGR: | 8.5% | 2032 Value Projection: | USD 652.3 Mn |
| Geographies covered: |
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| Segments covered: |
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| Companies covered: |
Eurofins Scientific, ALS Limited, Bio-Rad Laboratories, IDEXX Laboratories, Aqua Legion UK, Palintest, LuminUltra, Special Pathogens Laboratory, Romer Labs, Real Time Lab Services, Abbott, Beckman Coulter, Inc., BD, Pro Lab Diagnostics Inc. |
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*Definition: Legionella testing involves the analysis of water samples from various sources, such as cooling towers, potable water systems, and industrial facilities, to detect the presence of Legionella bacteria. Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Testing aims to identify and quantify the bacteria's presence, helping to ensure water safety, prevent outbreaks, and comply with regulations.
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About Author
Nikhilesh Ravindra Patel is a Senior Consultant with over 8 years of consulting experience. He excels in market estimations, market insights, and identifying trends and opportunities. His deep understanding of the market dynamics and ability to pinpoint growth areas make him an invaluable asset in guiding clients toward informed business decisions. He plays a instrumental role in providing market intelligence, business intelligence, and competitive intelligence services through the reports.
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