Los Angeles vs San Diego Air Quality Comparison
Which city has cleaner air right now, from the latest EPA AirNow AQI
As of September 16, 2026, Los Angeles, CA has cleaner air than San Diego, CA — AQI 38 (Good) vs 54 (Moderate), a gap of 16 AQI points in the latest EPA AirNow observations. Lower AQI means cleaner air. Los Angeles's reading is driven by O3 and San Diego's by PM2.5.
Los Angeles, CA
Good
San Diego, CA
Moderate
Summary
Los Angeles has 16 points better air quality
Los Angeles has an AQI of 38 compared to 54
Extra Protection for San Diego Homes
Air quality in San Diego is moderate (AQI 54), with fine particles (PM2.5) the main concern. A True-HEPA purifier gives sensitive groups — kids, seniors and anyone with asthma or allergies — cleaner air indoors on days like today.
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5-Day Forecast Comparison
| Day | Los Angeles | San Diego | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Today | AQI 50 | AQI 55 | Los Angeles |