Waco, Texas Air Quality
Waco has a median AQI of 52, earning an air quality grade of B — good air quality that ranks better than 10% of US cities. Air quality has been trending worse over the past decade, a concern for local residents and health officials. Particulate matter (PM2.5) is the primary concern, often linked to vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and wildfire smoke. In 2025, Waco recorded 106 good air quality days (43% of monitored days) and 3 unhealthy days.
Population: 193,768 • County: McLennan
Current AQI
Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 25 — Good |
| Air Quality Grade | B |
| Median AQI (2025) | 52 |
| vs. U.S. Cities | Better than 10% |
| Primary Pollutant | PM2.5 |
| Unhealthy Days/Year | 3 |
| 10-Year Trend | ↓ Worsening |
| 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 Waco is sourced from the Waco C1037 monitoring area, located approximately 10 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-35, US-84, and TX-6. 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 on I-35, agricultural operations, power plants, and manufacturing.
Waco 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
Waco Median AQI by Year
Annual EPA air quality data for Waco — median AQI, day-category breakdown, and primary pollutant per year.
| Year | Median AQI | Good Days | Unhealthy Days | Max AQI | Primary Pollutant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 52 | 106 | 3 | 142 | PM2.5 |
| 2024 | 53 | 126 | 5 | 133 | PM2.5 |
| 2023 | 52 | 169 | 8 | 129 | PM2.5 |
| 2022 | 48 | 209 | — | 100 | PM2.5 |
| 2021 | 39 | 280 | — | 100 | Ozone |
| 2020 | 39 | 294 | — | 97 | Ozone |
| 2019 | 39 | 313 | — | 87 | Ozone |
| 2018 | 38 | 248 | — | 98 | Ozone |
| 2017 | 39 | 166 | 1 | 112 | Ozone |
| 2016 | 37 | 327 | — | 76 | 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 Waco Air Quality
What is the air quality in Waco today?
The current AQI in Waco is 25, 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 Waco getting better or worse?
Air quality in Waco has been worsening. The median AQI has risen 15 points (from 37 in 2016 to 52 in 2025), a concern for local health officials.
What is the most common air pollutant in Waco?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in Waco, responsible for 170 days (70% of monitored days) in 2025. Particulate matter originates from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, construction, and industrial activity.
How many unhealthy air days does Waco have per year?
In 2025, Waco recorded 43% good air quality days (106 days) out of 244 monitored days. There were 3 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups days and 0 Unhealthy days (AQI above 100). The highest single-day AQI recorded was 142.
What air quality grade does Waco receive?
Waco receives an air quality grade of B, placing it better than 10% of US cities. This is based on a median AQI of 52 in 2025, with 106 good air quality days. The EPA monitors air quality in this area continuously using certified monitoring stations.
Air Quality Grade
Better than 10% of US cities
Nearby Cities
Protect Your Health
With a median AQI of 52, indoor air purification is recommended
See Recommended Purifiers ↓Get AQI Alerts
Receive notifications when air quality changes in Waco
National Rankings
See how Waco compares to every other US city by air quality.
Best Air Quality Cities →All city rankingsRecommended Air Purifiers for Waco
Waco 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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