The characteristics of occurrence and distribution of 8 synthetic musks in 15 sewage sludges in Shanghai were studied. The results indicated that HHCB and AHTN were the two main components in all sludges, with the mean concentration of 2.92 mg x kg(-1) (0.81-6.39 mg x kg(-1)) and 1.96 mg x kg(-1) (0.35-3.11 mg x kg(-1)), respectively; and the concentrations of ADBI, AHMI, MK were less. The distributions detected in sludges are in accordance with the usage patterns in China. Total concentrations of 8 synthetic musks were ranged from 1.16-9.57 mg x kg(-1), which were lower than the results in previous studies. Concentrations in sludges are influenced by ratio of domestic wastewater in influent, sewage load and sewage treatment methods. The good linear relationships among HHCB, AHTN and ADBI indicate that these components have the same source: domestic wastewater. The consumption rates of HHCB and AHTN connected to per inhabitant in Shanghai region were estimated, which are low compared with those found in European. The potential impacts on agricultural soil were also assessed.