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As air pollution continues to rise worldwide, a handful of cities are standing out for their clean air and sustainable urban living. Based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) as of October 24, 2025, here are the top 10 cities with the best air quality, all recording AQI values below 20.
Oslo, Norway
Oslo tops the global list with an impressive AQI of just 1. The city’s commitment to reducing fossil fuel use in private vehicles has paid off significantly. By the end of 2024, nearly 89% of passenger vehicles sold in Oslo were electric. Looking ahead, the city plans for all public buses, trams, and ferries to be emission-free by 2028, further cementing its status as a model for sustainable urban mobility.
Detroit, USA
Detroit ranks second with an AQI of 8. While historically the city faced severe air pollution due to its industrial base, recent reforms have improved air quality. The city’s municipal solid waste incinerator, a major polluter, was shut down in 2019, marking a turning point. However, Detroit’s AQI can vary day to day and does not fully reflect long-term trends.
Algiers, Algeria
Algiers shows an AQI of 11 today, though the coastal city struggles with pollution from heavy traffic, industrial activity, and atmospheric inversions that trap pollutants. Low AQI readings often reflect temporary weather conditions rather than sustained improvements in air quality.
Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s air quality is volatile, swinging from good to hazardous depending on vehicle emissions and wildfire smoke. On October 24, 2025, the AQI stood at 11, highlighting a snapshot of clean air amidst generally fluctuating conditions.
Sydney, Australia
Sydney consistently maintains a better AQI than many major global cities. On the reporting day, its AQI was 16. Strong environmental policies and a coastal location help the city enjoy relatively cleaner air despite its size.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur’s AQI is 17 as of October 24, 2025, though the city faces challenges from heavy traffic and seasonal haze caused by forest fires in neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia. Like many urban centers, clean air here can be temporary and dependent on weather patterns.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon also records an AQI of 17 today, but low pollution readings are often fleeting. The city enjoys good air quality under favourable conditions, though this can change with weather fluctuations.
Washington, USA
Washington mirrors similar trends with an AQI of 17. While the city sometimes enjoys periods of clean air, wildfires in Canada and local traffic emissions can quickly deteriorate conditions.
Salt Lake City, USA
Salt Lake City’s AQI stands at 17, though winter inversions often trap pollutants in the valley, creating periods of poor air quality. Daily readings may appear low due to favourable weather, but longer-term conditions remain challenging.
Skopje, North Macedonia
Skopje rounds out the list with an AQI of 18 today. The city, located in a valley, struggles with pollution from inefficient winter heating and ageing vehicles. Geographic factors exacerbate air quality issues, making sustained clean air difficult despite short-term improvements.
These cities demonstrate that clean air is achievable through policy, technology, and sustainable urban planning, even if some readings reflect temporary conditions. Oslo stands out as a global leader, while other cities show that air quality can fluctuate based on weather, local industries, and seasonal factors.
