AIR QUALITY AZ

Air Quality in Rio Rico, AZ: Moderate (54 AQI)

AQI 54 · Moderate · PM10 · Updated 2026-05-03

Rio Rico's air quality is moderate. Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged outdoor exertion.

Data: EPA AirNow, FEMA National Risk Index Last verified: 2026-05-03

Average AQI

Moderate

AQI Category

Wildfire Risk

Mold Score

ZIP Codes

What is AQI?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized scale from 0 to 500 that measures air pollution levels. 0-50 is "Good," 51-100 is "Moderate," 101-150 is "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," and above 150 is "Unhealthy" for everyone. AQI tracks five major pollutants: ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. Rio Rico's average AQI of 54 falls in the "Moderate" range.

How do wildfires affect air quality?

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can travel hundreds of miles and dramatically spike AQI readings. During fire season, even cities far from active fires can experience unhealthy air. HEPA air purifiers (rated for PM2.5) are the most effective indoor protection. Check AirNow.gov for real-time conditions during fire season.

Air Quality by ZIP Code in Rio Rico

AQI varies across Rio Rico's 1 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources and local geography.

ZIP Code	AQI	Category	Wildfire	Mold
85648	54	Moderate	51	17	View report →

Air Quality Overview

Rio Rico, Arizona has moderate air quality with an average AQI of 54. Air quality is acceptable, though some pollutants may be a concern for a small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution. The dominant pollutant is PM10.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is an EPA-standardized scale from 0 to 500. Values below 50 are "Good," 51-100 "Moderate," 101-150 "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," 151-200 "Unhealthy," 201-300 "Very Unhealthy," and above 300 "Hazardous."

Dominant Pollutant: PM10

PM10 is one of six criteria pollutants monitored by the EPA under the Clean Air Act. Elevated levels can cause respiratory irritation and may aggravate existing health conditions.

Air Quality by ZIP Code in Rio Rico

AQI varies across Rio Rico's 1 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources, traffic patterns, and local geography:

ZIP Code	AQI	Category	Wildfire Risk	Mold Score
85648	54	Moderate	51	17

Wildfire Smoke Risk

Rio Rico has an elevated wildfire smoke risk with an average smoke risk score of 51 (scale 0-100). There have been 48 fires recorded within 100 km of city ZIP codes.

Metric	Value
Avg. smoke risk score	51
Max smoke risk score	51
Fires within 100 km	48
High-risk ZIP codes	1

Wildfire smoke contains PM2.5, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds. Even short-term exposure can trigger asthma attacks and respiratory distress.

Indoor Mold Risk

Rio Rico has an average mold risk score of 17 out of 100.

Factor	Value
Mold risk score	17/100
Average humidity	34% RH
High-risk ZIPs	0
Peak season	balanced

Mold risk is influenced by humidity levels, housing age (older homes have more moisture issues), flood history, and water infrastructure quality. Indoor humidity above 60% creates favorable conditions for mold growth.

Signs of mold problems: musty odors, visible growth on walls or ceilings, worsening allergies indoors, condensation on windows. Professional mold testing ($300-$600) can identify hidden issues.

Health Recommendations

With moderate air quality (AQI 54), most people can be active outdoors. Sensitive groups should take precautions:

Sensitive groups (asthma, COPD, heart disease): consider reducing prolonged outdoor exertion
Keep windows closed on high-pollution days
Use a HEPA air purifier in main living areas
Check AirNow.gov before outdoor exercise

Rio Rico vs. Nearby Arizona Cities

How Rio Rico's air quality compares to nearby cities:

City	AQI	Category	Population
Rio Rico	54	Moderate	17,960
Young	N/A	N/A	17,682
Eloy	90	Moderate	17,413
Heber	N/A	N/A	17,370

ZIP Codes in Rio Rico

Rio Rico covers 1 ZIP code. Air quality can vary by neighborhood based on proximity to highways, industrial areas, and green spaces. Check your specific ZIP code for localized data.

Data Sources

Air quality: EPA AirNow — real-time and historical AQI data
Wildfire risk: FEMA National Risk Index
Mold risk: Derived from EPA, FEMA, Census ACS (humidity, housing age, flood history)
Monthly AQI: EPA Air Quality Statistics

Updated daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the air safe to breathe in Rio Rico?

Rio Rico's average AQI is 54 (Moderate). Air quality is acceptable, but unusually sensitive individuals may experience respiratory symptoms during peak pollution times.

How many unhealthy air days does Rio Rico have?

Rio Rico has zero recorded unhealthy air quality days, which is excellent. Air quality can still vary seasonally due to wildfire smoke, pollen, or industrial activity.

What is the AQI in Rio Rico?

The average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Rio Rico is 54, categorized as Moderate. The primary pollutant is PM10. AQI ranges from 0-500, where 0-50 is Good, 51-100 Moderate, 101-150 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, and 151+ Unhealthy.

What is the wildfire risk in Rio Rico?

Rio Rico has a wildfire risk score of 51 out of 100. Moderate wildfire risk means smoke events are possible. Having a HEPA air purifier available is recommended.

Is mold a concern in Rio Rico?

Rio Rico has a mold risk score of 17 out of 100, based on humidity, precipitation, and temperature data. Maintain good ventilation and address any water intrusion promptly to prevent mold growth.

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