Santa Cruz, CA Air Quality
Report & Trends
Analysis & History
The Verdict
Santa Cruz, CA is currently ranked #52 out of 224 cities tracked.
You are most likely to need an air purifier in December, when historical averages peak.
Health Recommendation
Sensitive groups should consider monitoring daily forecast apps significantly closer.
10-Year Annual PM2.5 Average
Analysis: Annual average Median AQI from 2015 to 2025.
If you live in Santa Cruz, CA, particle pollution is specifically a concern during December. Despite seasonal fluctuations, year-over-year averages have held steady.
Seasonal Risk Calendar
The "Smoke Season" Calendar
Values represent historical Average Monthly AQI (PM2.5). Higher is worse.
Calculate Your Wildfire Defense
Don't guess. Enter your room size to see exactly which machine clears smoke in 15 minutes.
Coway AP-1512HH
The industry standard. Perfect for living rooms.
Wildfire smoke is 2.5 microns wide—too small for normal filters. Using an undersized purifier is dangerous false security.
Common Questions
When is the worst time for air quality in Santa Cruz, CA?
Based on 10 years of data, the worst months for air quality in Santa Cruz, CA are: December (AQI 48.0), June (AQI 47.1), November (AQI 43.8). These months typically see the highest concentrations of PM2.5 due to fine particulate matter trapped by local geography.
Is it safe to move to Santa Cruz, CA given the air quality?
Absolutely. Santa Cruz, CA has some of the cleanest air in the country. While no place is immune to occasional regional smoke, the long-term data shows it is a safe and healthy environment for residents.
How is the air quality changing in Santa Cruz, CA?
It is holding steady. While some seasons see short-term spikes, the long-term annual average for Santa Cruz, CA has remained consistent over the last decade, avoiding the sharp declines seen in other parts of the region.
Do I really need an air purifier in Santa Cruz, CA?
For daily use, likely not. Santa Cruz, CA's air quality consistently rates as "Good." However, owning one as a precaution for wildfire season or allergy relief is still a smart decision for sensitive groups.
How accurate is this data?
This report is built on official EPA Air Quality System (AQS) data. We aggregated daily summary files from 2014 to present to build these charts. Unlike real-time apps that estimate, this is the verified historical record.
Is Santa Cruz, CA safe from other disasters?
Air quality is just one factor. Check our sister site for a complete analysis of tornado, hurricane, and flood risks.
Full Safety Report →Summary
The area is worth it, but it come with a new cost: vigilance during pollution season.