Moderate Smoke Risk

Seattle, WA Air Quality Report & Trends

Analysis & History

The Verdict

Improving

Seattle, WA is currently ranked #149 out of 224 cities tracked.

Historically, July brings the highest volume of particulate matter.

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 Seattle, WA, wildfire smoke is specifically a concern during July. Since 2015, wildfire smoke days have improved, signaling a positive shift in local air hygiene.

Seasonal Risk Calendar

The "Smoke Season" Calendar

Worst Month: July
Jan54.8
Feb51.2
Mar49.2
Apr45.4
May43.4
Jun43.6
Jul60.1
Aug48.6
Sep48.8
Oct49.1
Nov50.3
Dec55.3

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

Calculate Your Wildfire Defense

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sq ft
Small Bedroom (100)Open Living (800+)
Required Smoke CADR: 192
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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 Seattle, WA?

Based on 10 years of data, the worst months for air quality in Seattle, WA are: July (AQI 60.1), December (AQI 55.3), January (AQI 54.8). 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 Seattle, WA given the air quality?

Yes, but with caveats. Seattle, WA 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.

Is the air quality in Seattle, WA improving?

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

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

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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, 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

The data is a wake-up call. Seattle, WA is still a beautiful place to live, but it demands a higher level of preparedness.

Data VerifiedUpdated 2025