Salt Lake City Median AQI 2024: Historical Air Quality Data
Explore 2024 air quality data for Salt Lake City, including the median AQI, seasonal patterns, pollution trends, and how air quality changed over the year.
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.
Reduce Indoor Ozone in Salt Lake City
Today's main pollutant in Salt Lake City is ground-level ozone (AQI 85). Important: standard HEPA filters do NOT remove ozone — only a purifier with a substantial activated-carbon bed adsorbs it. The biggest wins are cutting indoor sources (gas appliances, certain "ionizer" purifiers) and ventilating when outdoor ozone is low (early morning). A high-carbon unit helps with the gases and VOCs that linger indoors.
Recommended: Levoit Core 600S — True HEPA + activated carbon · CADR ~410 CFM · rooms up to 635 sq ft
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Salt Lake City Air Quality in 2024
Historical air quality data for Salt Lake City in 2024 shows how pollution levels have changed over time. Understanding yearly trends helps identify seasonal patterns, the impact of local policies, and long-term air quality improvements or concerns in your area. Check current conditions below for today's AQI reading.
View Current Salt Lake City Air Quality →Salt Lake City 2024 Air Quality Snapshot
Across 2024, Salt Lake City's median AQI was around 89 (Moderate), based on current readings and seasonal patterns for the Salt Lake City reporting area. That means a typical day fell near AQI 89, with the dominant pollutant being ground-level ozone (O3), which is common for the Mountain West region.
How Salt Lake City Air Quality Changed by Season in 2024
Spring (Mar–May): Usually Salt Lake City's cleanest stretch, with AQI near 71. Mild temperatures and better atmospheric mixing keep both ozone and particulates low.
Summer (Jun–Aug): AQI climbs toward 113 as heat and sunlight drive ozone formation to its yearly peak. Afternoons are the worst time to be outside.
Fall (Sep–Nov): Air quality generally improves as temperatures drop, though early fall can still carry wildfire smoke in the Mountain West region.
Winter (Dec–Feb): AQI near 91. Cold-air temperature inversions can trap PM2.5 from heating and vehicles close to the ground, especially on still mornings.
Is It Safe to Exercise Outside in Salt Lake City?
With Salt Lake City's AQI at 85 (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 O3 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 Salt Lake City's Air Pollution?
In Salt Lake City, the leading pollutant is ground-level ozone (O3). As part of the Mountain West region, the main drivers of air pollution here are:
- •Winter temperature inversions that trap pollutants in valleys
- •Wildfire smoke during increasingly severe fire seasons
- •Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces in cold months
- •Vehicle emissions concentrated along urban corridors
Dig deeper: Salt Lake City PM2.5 levels · Salt Lake City ozone levels
Air Purifier & Monitor Buying Guides
Not sure which device fits your needs? Our hands-on guides break down the best picks by use case.
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 Salt Lake City Air Quality
What is the current air quality in Salt Lake City?
The current Air Quality Index (AQI) in Salt Lake City, UT is 85, which is considered moderate.
Is it safe to exercise outdoors in Salt Lake City?
Generally yes. With an AQI of 85, outdoor exercise is acceptable for most people. Sensitive individuals should monitor symptoms.
When is the best time of year to visit Salt Lake City for good air quality?
Spring and early fall typically offer the best air quality in Salt Lake City. Summer months may have elevated ozone levels, while winter can see higher PM2.5 from temperature inversions.
What causes air pollution in Salt Lake City?
Air pollution in Salt Lake City 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
Reduce Indoor Ozone in Salt Lake City
Today's main pollutant in Salt Lake City is ground-level ozone (AQI 85). Important: standard HEPA filters do NOT remove ozone — only a purifier with a substantial activated-carbon bed adsorbs it. The biggest wins are cutting indoor sources (gas appliances, certain "ionizer" purifiers) and ventilating when outdoor ozone is low (early morning). A high-carbon unit helps with the gases and VOCs that linger indoors.
Compare activated-carbon purifiers (for gases & ozone):
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