New York Air Quality in 2025: Pollution Patterns
How air quality behaves in New York: the latest measured AQI, which pollutants dominate, seasonal patterns, and the local drivers of pollution.
Current Air Quality
Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Extra Protection for New York Homes
Air quality in New York is moderate (AQI 52), with fine particles (PM2.5) the main concern. A True-HEPA purifier gives sensitive groups — kids, seniors and anyone with asthma or allergies — cleaner air indoors on days like today.
Recommended: Levoit Vital 200S — True HEPA · washable pre-filter · rooms up to 1,875 sq ft
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New York Air Quality in 2025
This page covers what shapes air quality in New York over the course of a year: the pollutants that dominate locally, how conditions typically shift between seasons, and the local emission sources behind them. Measured 2025 annual statistics are published by EPA's Air Quality System, not here, so the AQI figure below is the latest observation available when this page was published.
View Current New York Air Quality →Latest Measured Reading for New York
The most recent EPA AirNow observation for the Northeast Urban reporting area puts New York's AQI at 52 (Moderate), with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) as the dominant pollutant — typical for the Northeast region. Observed 6:00 AM EDT on August 9, 2026. Reported by New Jersey Dept. of Environmental Protection.
This is a single observation captured when the page was published, not a 2025 average. For measured annual and monthly statistics, use the EPA's Air Quality System reports.
How New York Air Quality Shifts Through the Year
Mar–May: Usually New York's cleanest stretch. Mild temperatures and better atmospheric mixing keep both ozone and particulates down.
Jun–Aug: Heat and sunlight drive higher ozone and, in the West, wildfire-smoke episodes. Afternoons are typically the worst time to be outside.
Sep–Nov: Air quality generally improves as temperatures drop, though early fall can still carry wildfire smoke in the Northeast region.
Dec–Feb: Cold-air temperature inversions can trap PM2.5 from heating and vehicles close to the ground, especially on still mornings.
Seasonal patterns above describe how pollution typically behaves in this region. They are not measured 2025 averages for New York.
Is It Safe to Exercise Outside in New York?
With New York's AQI at 52 (Moderate), outdoor exercise is generally safe for most people. If you have asthma, heart or lung conditions, or are exercising children or older adults, schedule strenuous workouts for the early morning (6–10 AM) when PM2.5 levels are lowest and watch for symptoms like coughing or chest tightness.
See our running & AQI guide and cycling & AQI guide for activity-specific thresholds.
What's Causing New York's Air Pollution?
In New York, the leading pollutant is fine particulate matter (PM2.5). As part of the Northeast region, the main drivers of air pollution here are:
- •Dense urban vehicle traffic and congestion
- •Building heating systems burning oil and natural gas
- •Ozone and fine particulates transported from upwind states
- •Construction and demolition activity in growing metros
Dig deeper: New York PM2.5 levels · New York ozone levels
Air Purifier & Monitor Buying Guides
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PM2.5 Levels
Fine particulate matter data →
Ozone Levels
Ground-level ozone data →
Seasonal Guides
Air quality by season →
Health Effects
Learn about air pollution impacts →
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Air Quality
What is the current air quality in New York?
The current Air Quality Index (AQI) in New York, NY is 52, which is considered moderate.
Is it safe to exercise outdoors in New York?
Generally yes. With an AQI of 52, outdoor exercise is acceptable for most people. Sensitive individuals should monitor symptoms.
When is the best time of year to visit New York for good air quality?
Spring and early fall typically offer the best air quality in New York. Summer months may have elevated ozone levels, while winter can see higher PM2.5 from temperature inversions.
What causes air pollution in New York?
Air pollution in New York can come from vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction, wildfires, and weather patterns. Local geography and seasonal factors also play a significant role.
Explore More Air Quality Data
Extra Protection for New York Homes
Air quality in New York is moderate (AQI 52), with fine particles (PM2.5) the main concern. A True-HEPA purifier gives sensitive groups — kids, seniors and anyone with asthma or allergies — cleaner air indoors on days like today.
Compare top-rated True-HEPA purifiers:
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