Chicago vs Sacramento Air Quality Comparison
Which city has cleaner air right now, from the latest EPA AirNow AQI
As of September 23, 2026, Chicago, IL has cleaner air than Sacramento, CA — AQI 31 (Good) vs 52 (Moderate), a gap of 21 AQI points in the latest EPA AirNow observations. Lower AQI means cleaner air. Chicago's reading is driven by O3 and Sacramento's by PM2.5.
Chicago, IL
Good
Sacramento, CA
Moderate
Summary
Chicago has 21 points better air quality
Chicago has an AQI of 31 compared to 52
Extra Protection for Sacramento Homes
Air quality in Sacramento 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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