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
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Quick Facts
| Current AQI | 53 — Moderate |
| 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 AirNow |
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 30 Days
Current Pollutant Levels
Real-time data from EPA AirNow
AQI Trend (10 Years)
Air Quality Days by Year
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 53, which is rated "Moderate". Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Is air quality in New York getting better or worse?
Air quality in New York has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with a median AQI of around 44.
What is the most common air pollutant in New York?
PM2.5 is the primary air pollutant in New York, responsible for the most air quality-impacted days in 2025. Particulate matter can originate from vehicle exhaust, wildfires, and industrial emissions.
How many unhealthy air days does New York have per year?
In 2025, New York had 6 days when air quality was unhealthy or unhealthy for sensitive groups (AQI above 100). There were 209 good days and 102 moderate days out of 317 days monitored.
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 grade is based on a median AQI of 44 for 2025, derived from EPA monitoring data.
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
Based on your area's air quality (median AQI: 44), we recommend these air purifiers to help protect your health indoors.
RabbitAir MinusA2
Stylish wall-mountable design with customizable artwork panels.
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Molekule Air Pro
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Blueair Blue Pure 211+
High performance for large rooms with simple operation.
Dyson Pure Cool TP04
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