Severe Smoke Risk

Salt Lake City, UT Air Quality Report & Trends

Analysis & History

The Verdict

Stable

This places Salt Lake City, UT in the bottom 9% of US cities for air quality.

You are most likely to need an air purifier in July, 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.

Our 10-year analysis of Salt Lake City, UT reveals a distinct pattern in wildfire smoke exposure. Despite seasonal fluctuations, year-over-year averages have remained consistent.

Seasonal Risk Calendar

The "Smoke Season" Calendar

Worst Month: July
Jan56.9
Feb41.8
Mar55.7
Apr60.5
May63.6
Jun71.5
Jul108.1
Aug79.6
Sep70.9
Oct59.4
Nov45.8
Dec64.0

Values represent historical Average Monthly AQI (PM2.5). Higher is worse.

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Small Bedroom (100)Open Living (800+)
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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 Salt Lake City, UT?

Based on 10 years of data, the worst months for air quality in Salt Lake City, UT are: July (AQI 108.1), August (AQI 79.6), June (AQI 71.5). These months typically see the highest concentrations of PM2.5 due to smoke from fires hundreds of miles away.

Is it safe to move to Salt Lake City, UT given the air quality?

Yes, but with caveats. Salt Lake City, UT offers an incredible quality of life, but new residents should be aware of the "smoke season." Most homes in the area need robust air filtration systems to maintain safe indoor levels during these few weeks a year.

How is the air quality changing in Salt Lake City, UT?

It is holding steady. While some seasons see short-term spikes, the long-term annual average for Salt Lake City, UT 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 Salt Lake City, UT?

Based on the 10-year analysis, absolutely. The levels of PM2.5 recorded during peak events are unsafe for indoor occupation without filtration. A CADR-rated purifier is considered essential appliance for Salt Lake City, UT households.

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.

Broader Risk Analysis

Is Salt Lake City, UT 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

Looking at the 10-year chart, the trend is undeniable. Cleaner air is possible, but it requires active management.

Data VerifiedUpdated 2025