Walden, Tennessee Air Quality
Walden has a median AQI of 45, earning an air quality grade of A- — excellent air quality that ranks better than 27% 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, Walden recorded 116 good air quality days (64% of monitored days) and 2 unhealthy days.
Population: 1,845 • County: Hamilton
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 51 — Moderate |
| Air Quality Grade | A- |
| Median AQI (2025) | 45 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 27% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 2 |
| 10-Year Trend | → Stable |
| Data Source | EPA AQS (historical) · AirNow (live) |
Health Recommendation
Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
5-Day AQI Forecast
Last 90 Days
Current Pollutant Levels
Real-time data from EPA AirNow
Local Air Quality Context
Air quality data for Walden is sourced from the Siskin Dr 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.
Walden 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
Walden Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Walden — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 45 | 116 | 2 | 141 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 48 | 190 | 3 | 126 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 51 | 175 | 3 | 137 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 51 | 169 | 1 | 105 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 48 | 191 | 1 | 101 | PM2.5 |
| 2020 | 46 | 219 | 1 | 151 | PM2.5 |
| 2019 | 51 | 181 | — | 97 | PM2.5 |
| 2018 | 48 | 193 | 1 | 101 | PM2.5 |
| 2017 | 51 | 156 | 2 | 108 | PM2.5 |
| 2016 | 47 | 179 | 3 | 186 | Ozone |
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 Walden Air Quality
What is the air quality in Walden today?
The current AQI in Walden is 51, rated "Moderate". Air quality is moderate — unusually sensitive individuals may want to limit prolonged outdoor exertion. Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Is air quality in Walden getting better or worse?
Air quality in Walden has been stable. The median AQI has dropped 2 points (from 47 in 2016 to 45 in 2025).
What is the most common air pollutant in Walden?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Walden, responsible for 124 days (69% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Walden have per year?
In 2025, Walden recorded 64% good air quality days (116 days) out of 181 monitored days. There were 2 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 141.
What air quality grade does Walden receive?
Walden receives an air quality grade of A-, placing it better than 27% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 45 in 2025, with 116 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 27% of US cities
Nearby Cities
Get AQI Alerts
Receive notifications when air quality changes in Walden
National Rankings
See how Walden compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Walden
Walden 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.
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
High performance for large rooms with simple operation.
- ✓Good room size match
- ✓Recommended for your air quality
- ✓High performance
We may earn a commission from purchases
Other Great Options
Molekule Air Pro
Commercial-grade with patented PECO technology for destroying pollutants.
Honeywell HPA300
Powerful workhorse for large rooms. Built to last.
Coway Airmega AP-1512HH
Best overall value for medium rooms. Excellent performance at an affordable price.
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 →