Fulton, Maryland Air Quality
Fulton has a median AQI of 36, earning an air quality grade of A — excellent air quality that ranks better than 79% of US cities. Air quality has been improving steadily over the past decade, a positive sign for residents. Particulate matter (PM2.5) is the primary concern, often linked to vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and wildfire smoke. In 2025, Fulton recorded 211 good air quality days (77% of monitored days).
Population: 5,677 • County: Howard
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 21 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | A |
| Median AQI (2025) | 36 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 79% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 0 |
| 10-Year Trend | ↑ Improving |
| 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 Fulton is sourced from the Howard County Near Road 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.
Fulton 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
Fulton Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Fulton — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 36 | 211 | — | 78 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 32 | 307 | — | 75 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 38 | 268 | 4 | 188 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 37 | 290 | — | 70 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 36 | 284 | — | 83 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 37 | 297 | — | 71 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 39 | 267 | — | 81 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 47 | 205 | — | 78 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 42 | 234 | — | 76 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 48 | 194 | — | 87 | 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 Fulton Air Quality
What is the air quality in Fulton today?
The current AQI in Fulton is 21, 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 Fulton getting better or worse?
Air quality in Fulton has been improving. The median AQI has dropped 12 points (from 48 in 2016 to 36 in 2025), a positive trend for residents.
What is the most common air pollutant in Fulton?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Fulton, responsible for 240 days (88% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Fulton have per year?
In 2025, Fulton recorded 77% good air quality days (211 days) out of 274 monitored days. There were 0 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 78.
What air quality grade does Fulton receive?
Fulton receives an air quality grade of A, placing it better than 79% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 36 in 2025, with 211 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 79% of US cities
Nearby Cities
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National Rankings
See how Fulton compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Fulton
Fulton 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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