Data: EPA AirNow, FEMA National Risk Index Last verified: 2026-07-18

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. Saginaw's average AQI of 49 falls in the "Good" 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 Map: Saginaw, MI

Each dot represents a ZIP code. Color indicates AQI level. Tap a dot for details.

Good (0-50) Moderate (51-100) USG (101-150) Unhealthy (151+)

Air Quality by ZIP Code in Saginaw

AQI varies across Saginaw's 11 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources and local geography.

ZIP Code	AQI	Category	Wildfire	Mold
48601	49	Good	21	69	View report →
48602	49	Good	21	69	View report →
48603	49	Good	21	55	View report →
48604	49	Good	21	63	View report →
48605	49	Good	21	56	View report →
48606	49	Good	21	56	View report →
48607	49	Good	21	71	View report →
48608	49	Good	21	44	View report →
48609	49	Good	21	61	View report →
48638	49	Good	21	61	View report →
48663	49	Good	21	56	View report →

Air Quality Overview

Saginaw, Michigan has good air quality with an average AQI of 49. This means air pollution poses little or no risk. The dominant pollutant measured 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 Saginaw

AQI varies across Saginaw's 11 ZIP codes based on proximity to pollution sources, traffic patterns, and local geography:

Wildfire Smoke Risk

Saginaw has an elevated wildfire smoke risk with an average smoke risk score of 21 (scale 0-100). There have been 11 fires recorded within 100 km of city ZIP codes.

Metric	Value
Avg. smoke risk score	21
Max smoke risk score	21
Fires within 100 km	11
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

Saginaw has an average mold risk score of 60 out of 100, with 10 ZIP codes in the high-risk category.

Factor	Value
Mold risk score	60/100
Average humidity	70% RH
High-risk ZIPs	10
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 good air quality (AQI 49), Saginaw residents can enjoy outdoor activities without significant restrictions. General tips:

• Monitor AQI during wildfire season for temporary spikes
• Use HEPA air purifiers indoors if you have respiratory conditions
• Maintain indoor humidity between 30-50% to prevent mold

Saginaw vs. Nearby Michigan Cities

How Saginaw's air quality compares to nearby cities:

ZIP Codes in Saginaw

Saginaw covers 11 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.