Low Smoke Risk

Ellensburg, WA Air Quality Report & Trends

Analysis & History

The Verdict

Improving

Compared to other metro areas, Ellensburg, WA scores exceptionally well.

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

Is Ellensburg, WA safe from particle pollution? The data points to January being the critical month. Since 2015, particle pollution days have improved, signaling a positive shift in local air hygiene.

Seasonal Risk Calendar

The "Smoke Season" Calendar

Worst Month: January
Jan43.3
Feb26.0
Mar20.0
Apr14.3
May17.1
Jun19.0
Jul29.5
Aug33.8
Sep24.5
Oct23.1
Nov37.7
Dec43.1

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.

sq ft
Small Bedroom (100)Open Living (800+)
Required Smoke CADR: 192
Recommended

Coway AP-1512HH

The industry standard. Perfect for living rooms.

Coway AP-1512HH
Check Price on Amazon
Clears smoke in ~12.5 mins
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We recommend these units based on independent CADR performance data, not commission.

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 Ellensburg, WA?

Based on 10 years of data, the worst months for air quality in Ellensburg, WA are: January (AQI 43.3), December (AQI 43.1), November (AQI 37.7). 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 Ellensburg, WA given the air quality?

Absolutely. Ellensburg, WA 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.

Is the air quality in Ellensburg, WA improving?

Yes. Our 10-year analysis shows a positive trend. Despite regional wildfire challenges, average particulate levels in Ellensburg, WA have decreased, likely due to favorable weather patterns and reduced local emissions.

Do I really need an air purifier in Ellensburg, WA?

For daily use, likely not. Ellensburg, WA'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.

Broader Risk Analysis

Is Ellensburg, WA 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

We expect this instability to continue. The best time to buy an air purifier was 10 years ago. The second best time is today.

Data VerifiedUpdated 2025