Madison Median AQI 2025: Historical Air Quality Data
Explore 2025 air quality data for Madison, including the median AQI, seasonal patterns, pollution trends, and how air quality changed over the year.
Current Air Quality
Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
Madison Air Quality in 2025
Historical air quality data for Madison in 2025 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 Madison Air Quality →Madison 2025 Air Quality Snapshot
Across 2025, Madison's median AQI was around 40 (Good), based on current readings and seasonal patterns for the Madison reporting area. That means a typical day fell near AQI 40, with the dominant pollutant being ground-level ozone (O3), which is common for the Upper Midwest region.
How Madison Air Quality Changed by Season in 2025
Spring (Mar–May): Usually Madison's cleanest stretch, with AQI near 22. Mild temperatures and better atmospheric mixing keep both ozone and particulates low.
Summer (Jun–Aug): AQI climbs toward 64 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 Upper Midwest region.
Winter (Dec–Feb): AQI near 42. 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 Madison?
With Madison's AQI at 36 (Good), outdoor exercise is generally safe for most people. Conditions are good for running, cycling, and outdoor sports at any time of day.
See our running & AQI guide and cycling & AQI guide for activity-specific thresholds.
What's Causing Madison's Air Pollution?
In Madison, the leading pollutant is ground-level ozone (O3). As part of the Upper Midwest region, the main drivers of air pollution here are:
- •Vehicle emissions in metropolitan areas
- •Agricultural dust from large-scale farming
- •Wood-burning during long, cold winters
- •Regional transport from other Midwest industrial areas
Dig deeper: Madison PM2.5 levels · Madison 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 Madison Air Quality
What is the current air quality in Madison?
The current Air Quality Index (AQI) in Madison, WI is 36, which is considered good.
Is it safe to exercise outdoors in Madison?
Yes, with an AQI of 36, outdoor exercise is safe for everyone in Madison.
When is the best time of year to visit Madison for good air quality?
Spring and early fall typically offer the best air quality in Madison. Summer months may have elevated ozone levels, while winter can see higher PM2.5 from temperature inversions.
What causes air pollution in Madison?
Air pollution in Madison 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 Madison
Today's main pollutant in Madison is ground-level ozone (AQI 36). 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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