Macon, Georgia Air Quality
Macon has a median AQI of 51, earning an air quality grade of B — good air quality that ranks better than 11% 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, Macon recorded 134 good air quality days (49% of monitored days) and 1 unhealthy days.
Population: 156,578 • County: Bibb
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 41 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | B |
| Median AQI (2025) | 51 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 11% |
| 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 Macon is sourced from the Macon Allied monitoring area, located approximately 4 miles from city center. This EPA-certified station continuously tracks particulate matter (PM2.5), the primary driver of air quality alerts in this area.
Major roadways in the area include I-75, I-16, US-23, and US-129. Heavy vehicle traffic on these corridors is a primary source of nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
Key local pollution sources include vehicle traffic, power plants (Plant Scherer), Bibb County industrial, and manufacturing.
Macon 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
Macon Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Macon — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 51 | 134 | 1 | 119 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 51 | 179 | 2 | 123 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 53 | 136 | 4 | 157 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 46 | 216 | — | 91 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 48 | 198 | 2 | 131 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 42 | 262 | — | 97 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 46 | 216 | 3 | 137 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 42 | 250 | 1 | 106 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 45 | 230 | — | 93 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 50 | 184 | 5 | 147 | 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 Macon Air Quality
What is the air quality in Macon today?
The current AQI in Macon is 41, 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 Macon getting better or worse?
Air quality in Macon has been stable. The median AQI has risen 1 points (from 50 in 2016 to 51 in 2025).
What is the most common air pollutant in Macon?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Macon, responsible for 232 days (86% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Macon have per year?
In 2025, Macon recorded 49% good air quality days (134 days) out of 271 monitored days. There were 1 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 119.
What air quality grade does Macon receive?
Macon receives an air quality grade of B, placing it better than 11% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 51 in 2025, with 134 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 11% of US cities
Nearby Cities
Protect Your Health
With a median AQI of 51, indoor air purification is recommended
See Recommended Purifiers ↓Get AQI Alerts
Receive notifications when air quality changes in Macon
National Rankings
See how Macon compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Macon
Macon 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.
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Blueair Blue Pure 211+
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