Air Quality Index (AQI) in Costa Rica 🇨🇷
Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in Costa Rica
Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is measured at a score of 16. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Good. The current atmosphere in San José is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 2.8 µg/m³ and PM10 levels recorded at 3.2 µg/m³. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 5.7 µg/m³.
Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across Costa Rica based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Limon, Alajuela, Liberia, Paraíso and Puntarenas. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.
Costa Rica Air Quality: Major Cities Index
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* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for Costa Rica is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Quality in Costa Rica
What is the air quality in Costa Rica right now?
The current AQI in San José (capital of Costa Rica) is 16 — categorised as Good. Conditions vary across the country — see AQI for all cities for a complete picture.
Which city in Costa Rica has the worst air quality right now?
Right now, Nicoya has the highest AQI reading in Costa Rica at 32 (Good).
Which city in Costa Rica has the best air quality right now?
Liberia currently has the lowest AQI in Costa Rica at 7 (Good).
What is the PM2.5 level in San José today?
The PM2.5 (fine particulate) concentration in San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is currently 2.8 µg/m³. The WHO 24-hour guideline is 15 µg/m³.
Is the air in Costa Rica safe to breathe today?
Most cities in Costa Rica currently report acceptable air-quality levels, though local conditions vary.
What are the cleanest cities in Costa Rica right now?
Top 5 cities in Costa Rica with the best (lowest) AQI right now:
- Liberia: AQI 7 — Good
- Guápiles: AQI 7 — Good
- Siquirres: AQI 7 — Good
- Limon: AQI 8 — Good
- San José: AQI 16 — Good
What are the most polluted cities in Costa Rica right now?
Top 5 cities in Costa Rica with the worst (highest) AQI right now:
- Nicoya: AQI 32 — Good
- Puntarenas: AQI 26 — Good
- Chacarita: AQI 26 — Good
- Esparza: AQI 26 — Good
- Cañas: AQI 21 — Good
Air Quality Scales & Resources
Wondering what these AQI numbers mean for your health? Our worldwide air quality guide explains every level of the AQI, PM2.5, PM10, ozone, NO2, CO and SO2 scales, with practical health advice for each range.
→ Understanding Air Quality Levels: read the full guide