New York, New York Air Quality
New York has a median AQI of 44, earning an air quality grade of A- — excellent air quality that ranks better than 31% 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, New York recorded 209 good air quality days (66% of monitored days) and 6 unhealthy days.
Population: 19,268,388 • County: Queens
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 14 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | A- |
| Median AQI (2025) | 44 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 31% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 6 |
| 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 New York is sourced from the Bklyn - PS274 monitoring area, located approximately 0 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-95, I-278 (Staten Island Expwy), I-478, I-87, I-495 (LIE), and US-1 (NJ Turnpike approaches). 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, building heating oil (No. 4 & 6 oil), commercial truck idling, Port of New York, and second-hand smoke from NJ industrial sites upwind.
New York 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
New York Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for New York — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 44 | 209 | 6 | 154 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 45 | 224 | 2 | 112 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 50 | 188 | 12 | 278 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 47 | 203 | 3 | 126 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 47 | 215 | 9 | 154 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 43 | 258 | 3 | 140 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 45 | 234 | 4 | 119 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 45 | 229 | 8 | 140 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 44 | 228 | 6 | 151 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 44 | 245 | 6 | 143 | 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 New York Air Quality
What is the air quality in New York today?
The current AQI in New York is 14, 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 New York getting better or worse?
Air quality in New York has been stable. The median AQI has remained stable at around 44 over the past decade.
What is the most common air pollutant in New York?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in New York, responsible for 128 days (40% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does New York have per year?
In 2025, New York recorded 66% good air quality days (209 days) out of 317 monitored days. There were 5 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 1 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 154.
What air quality grade does New York receive?
New York receives an air quality grade of A-, placing it better than 31% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 44 in 2025, with 209 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 31% of US cities
Nearby Cities
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National Rankings
See how New York compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for New York
New York 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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