Brookside, Alabama Air Quality
Brookside has a median AQI of 53, earning an air quality grade of B — good air quality that ranks better than 8% of US cities. Air quality has remained relatively stable over the past decade. Particulate matter (PM2.5) is the primary concern, often linked to vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and wildfire smoke. In 2025, Brookside recorded 67 good air quality days (37% of monitored days) and 1 unhealthy days.
Population: 1,603 • County: Jefferson
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 18 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | B |
| Median AQI (2025) | 53 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 8% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 1 |
| 10-Year Trend | → Stable |
| Data Source | EPA AQS (historical) · AirNow (live) |
Health Recommendation
Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
It's a great day to be active outside!
5-Day AQI Forecast
Last 90 Days
Current Pollutant Levels
Real-time data from EPA AirNow
Local Air Quality Context
Air quality data for Brookside is sourced from the NO. BHAM monitoring area, located approximately 8 miles from city center. This EPA-certified station continuously tracks particulate matter (PM2.5), the primary driver of air quality alerts in this area.
Brookside tends to see elevated PM2.5 readings during fall and winter months when temperature inversions trap pollutants near the surface. Wood burning, vehicle exhaust, and reduced wind speeds compound the effect. Residents with respiratory conditions should monitor forecasts closely between November and February.
AQI Trend (10 Years)
Air Quality Days by Year
Brookside Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Brookside — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 53 | 67 | 1 | 112 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 57 | 95 | 6 | 119 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 61 | 73 | 20 | 255 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 54 | 128 | 2 | 105 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 56 | 104 | 5 | 189 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 54 | 119 | 3 | 129 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 58 | 85 | 13 | 150 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 56 | 98 | 4 | 156 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 56 | 104 | 3 | 129 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 56 | 105 | 9 | 151 | PM2.5 |
Source: EPA Air Quality System (AQS) annual summaries. "Unhealthy Days" includes Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, and Hazardous categories.
2025 Air Quality Summary
Primary Pollutant Days (2025)
Days when each pollutant was the primary driver of AQI. Learn about pollutants →
Frequently Asked Questions About Brookside Air Quality
What is the air quality in Brookside today?
The current AQI in Brookside is 18, rated "Good". Air quality is good — outdoor activity is safe for everyone today. Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
Is air quality in Brookside getting better or worse?
Air quality in Brookside has been stable. The median AQI has dropped 3 points (from 56 in 2016 to 53 in 2025).
What is the most common air pollutant in Brookside?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Brookside, responsible for 156 days (86% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Brookside have per year?
In 2025, Brookside recorded 37% good air quality days (67 days) out of 182 monitored days. There were 1 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 112.
What air quality grade does Brookside receive?
Brookside receives an air quality grade of B, placing it better than 8% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 53 in 2025, with 67 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 8% of US cities
Nearby Cities
Protect Your Health
With a median AQI of 53, indoor air purification is recommended
See Recommended Purifiers ↓Get AQI Alerts
Receive notifications when air quality changes in Brookside
National Rankings
See how Brookside compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Brookside
Brookside sees its worst PM2.5 during winter temperature inversions when particulates get trapped near ground level. A unit with True HEPA and an auto-mode sensor is most effective for responding to these spikes.
Honeywell HPA300
Powerful workhorse for large rooms. Built to last.
- ✓Perfect room size match
- ✓Recommended for your air quality
- ✓Has 1/3 desired features
- ✓High performance
We may earn a commission from purchases
Other Great Options
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
High performance for large rooms with simple operation.
Coway Airmega AP-1512HH
Best overall value for medium rooms. Excellent performance at an affordable price.
Winix 5500-2
Feature-rich purifier at a great price. Good for allergies.
Not sure which air purifier is right for you?
Learn more about different types of air purifiers and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Read our complete buying guide →