Air Quality in Decatur, GA: Moderate (69 AQI)
AQI 69 · Moderate · Ozone · Updated 2026-05-03
Decatur'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
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. Decatur's average AQI of 69 falls in the "Moderate" range.
Air Quality Map: Decatur, GA
Each dot represents a ZIP code. Color indicates AQI level. Tap a dot for details.
Air Quality by ZIP Code in Decatur
AQI varies across Decatur's 9 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources and local geography.
| ZIP Code | AQI | Category | Wildfire | Mold | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30030 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 60 | View report → |
| 30031 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 | View report → |
| 30032 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 65 | View report → |
| 30033 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 60 | View report → |
| 30034 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 53 | View report → |
| 30035 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 47 | View report → |
| 30036 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 | View report → |
| 30037 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 | View report → |
| 30073 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 43 | View report → |
Air Quality Overview
Decatur, Georgia has moderate air quality with an average AQI of 69. 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 Ozone.
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: Ozone
Ground-level ozone forms when pollutants from cars, power plants, and industrial facilities react with sunlight. Unlike stratospheric ozone, ground-level ozone is harmful to breathe.
Health effects of ozone exposure:
- Irritation of the respiratory system
- Reduced lung function
- Aggravation of asthma and chronic lung diseases
- Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections
Peak times: Ozone levels are typically highest on hot, sunny afternoons. Exercise outdoors in the morning when levels are lower.
Air Quality by ZIP Code in Decatur
AQI varies across Decatur's 9 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources, traffic patterns, and local geography:
| ZIP Code | AQI | Category | Wildfire Risk | Mold Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30030 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 60 |
| 30031 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 |
| 30032 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 65 |
| 30033 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 60 |
| 30034 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 53 |
| 30035 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 47 |
| 30036 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 |
| 30037 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 39 |
| 30073 | 69 | Moderate | 11 | 43 |
Wildfire Smoke Risk
Decatur has an elevated wildfire smoke risk with an average smoke risk score of 11 (scale 0-100). There have been 9 fires recorded within 100 km of city ZIP codes.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Avg. smoke risk score | 11 |
| Max smoke risk score | 11 |
| Fires within 100 km | 9 |
| High-risk ZIP codes | 0 |
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
Decatur has an average mold risk score of 49 out of 100, with 3 ZIP codes in the high-risk category.
| Factor | Value |
|---|---|
| Mold risk score | 49/100 |
| Average humidity | 71% RH |
| High-risk ZIPs | 3 |
| Peak season | summer high |
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 69), 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
Decatur vs. Nearby Georgia Cities
How Decatur's air quality compares to nearby cities:
| City | AQI | Category | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decatur | 69 | Moderate | 743,000 |
| Avondale Estates | 98 | Moderate | 743,000 |
| Clarkston | 98 | Moderate | 743,000 |
| Pine Lake | 98 | Moderate | 743,000 |
ZIP Codes in Decatur
Decatur covers 9 ZIP codes. 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.