Air Quality in Annapolis, MD: Moderate (57 AQI)
AQI 57 · Moderate · Ozone · Updated 2026-05-03
Annapolis'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. Annapolis's average AQI of 57 falls in the "Moderate" range.
Air Quality Map: Annapolis, MD
Each dot represents a ZIP code. Color indicates AQI level. Tap a dot for details.
Air Quality by ZIP Code in Annapolis
AQI varies across Annapolis's 8 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources and local geography.
| ZIP Code | AQI | Category | Wildfire | Mold | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21401 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 48 | View report → |
| 21402 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 54 | View report → |
| 21403 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 55 | View report → |
| 21404 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 36 | View report → |
| 21405 | 57 | Moderate | 16 | 54 | View report → |
| 21409 | 57 | Moderate | 12 | 48 | View report → |
| 21411 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 32 | View report → |
| 21412 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 32 | View report → |
Air Quality Overview
Annapolis, Maryland has moderate air quality with an average AQI of 57. 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 Annapolis
AQI varies across Annapolis's 8 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources, traffic patterns, and local geography:
| ZIP Code | AQI | Category | Wildfire Risk | Mold Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21401 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 48 |
| 21402 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 54 |
| 21403 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 55 |
| 21404 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 36 |
| 21405 | 57 | Moderate | 16 | 54 |
| 21409 | 57 | Moderate | 12 | 48 |
| 21411 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 32 |
| 21412 | 57 | Moderate | 11 | 32 |
Wildfire Smoke Risk
Annapolis has an elevated wildfire smoke risk with an average smoke risk score of 12 (scale 0-100). There have been 33 fires recorded within 100 km of city ZIP codes.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Avg. smoke risk score | 12 |
| Max smoke risk score | 16 |
| Fires within 100 km | 33 |
| 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
Annapolis has an average mold risk score of 45 out of 100, with 1 ZIP codes in the high-risk category.
| Factor | Value |
|---|---|
| Mold risk score | 45/100 |
| Average humidity | 67% RH |
| High-risk ZIPs | 1 |
| 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 57), 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
Annapolis vs. Nearby Maryland Cities
How Annapolis's air quality compares to nearby cities:
| City | AQI | Category | Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annapolis | 57 | Moderate | 43,780 |
| Cumberland | 65 | Moderate | 38,609 |
| California | 53 | Moderate | 51,197 |
| Pasadena | 66 | Moderate | 35,035 |
ZIP Codes in Annapolis
Annapolis covers 8 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.