As the second-largest state in the U.S., Texas is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which include lush green forests and arid deserts. Given the rapidly growing industries, it isn’t surprising that there has been lingering confusion and worry about air quality among people, both residents and visitors.
If you are planning to explore Texas, either as a resident or a visitor, exploring the cities with the best air quality ensures optimal health and well-being.
To make your life easier, we have shortlisted the top 10 cities with the best air quality in Texas that you can consider exploring.
1. Fredericksburg
Average AQI: 25
Despite its quaintness, Fredericksburg is a reasonably popular city in Texas, located in the Texas Hill Country, renowned for its German heritage, vineyards, and surrounding landscapes. However, beyond how charming this little town is, its cleanliness truly makes it a popular spot. Not just in terms of physical cleanliness, but also the air you breathe in. Since there’s low population density and limited industrial activity, these do keep the pollution levels in check. Additionally, Fredericksburg promotes eco-tourism and sustainable vineyard practices, ensuring a clean atmosphere year-round.
2. Kerrville
Average AQI: 27
A short drive from Fredericksburg, Kerrville is another popular city in Hill Country known for its excellent air quality. The city is located along the Guadalupe River and is quite popular among retirees and outdoor enthusiasts who want to bask in the peace and clean air. Due to their strict zoning regulations, Kerrville also experiences limited industrial emissions, which keeps the city clean and the air breathable. There are numerous open green spaces like Louise Hays Park and the River Trail, which keep the natural air quality in check.
3. Rockport
Average AQI: 29
Located along the Texas Gulf Coast, Rockport is renowned for its coastal charm and artsy vibe. Numerous birdwatching reserves are available, where you can enjoy the coastal breeze while breathing in the clean air. Among Texas’s many coastal cities and towns, Rockport thus ranks as one of the best AQI ratings. While there, explore the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, which plays a significant role in maintaining clean air. Also, the city officials emphasize coastal preservation and low-emission policies, which keep the air clean.
4. Boerne
Average AQI: 30
In the northwestern province of San Antonio is Boerne, a beautiful and quaint city known for its clean atmosphere, making it a great holiday destination for families. The town has underlying German roots, which you can explore downtown. However, the city’s strong commitment to sustainable development is the main attraction. The city has several natural reserves, including the Cibolo Nature Center, where the large green areas keep the pollution levels in check, helping the city’s population breathe in fresh and clean air.
5. Burnet
Average AQI: 28
Popularly known as the “Bluebonnet Capital of Texas,” Burnet is known for two major things – the growth of different wildflowers and impressively low AQI. The city is located in the heart of Texas and has minimal industrialization and has dense vegetation cover, which filters out the airborne pollutants. The city is also close to several lakes like Lake Buchanan and Inks Lake, which regulate the temperature and keep the humidity in check. The community in the city is also quite proactive about ensuring sustainable development and being heavy on green spaces, contributing to the air-friendly culture.
6. Alpine
Average AQI: 26
Being a high desert town, many have this confusion that Alpine is a heavily polluted city with a high AQI, which is far from the truth. Instead, Alpine is surrounded by the majestic Davis Mountains and boasts a dry climate with high elevation, which keeps the air quality in check. Also, the lack of industrial facilities in the city makes it one of the best places in Texas for clean, breathable air. One of the highlights of Alpine is Big Bend National Park, which is also popular for sustainable tourism and conservation. Also, there is a natural airflow, which prevents the buildup of smog or pollutants.
Concerned about air quality and health? Learn more about How Weather Change Affects Asthma and how to stay safe during seasonal shifts.
7. Llano
Average AQI: 30
Another Hill Country option worth exploring is Llano. This peaceful town is located along the Llano River, which has earned a reputation for clean living and wide-open skies. The town heavily relies on agriculture and tourism and is quite low on industrialization, which keeps the air pollution in check. Also, Llano has a low population density with many rivers and surrounding natural habitats, ensuring optimal air quality protection. The best time to visit the town is during spring and fall.
8. Marble Falls
Average AQI: 32
Marble Falls is part of the Highland Lakes region and is a scenic town surrounded by lakes, hills, and granite outcroppings. Located in Central Texas, the city experiences strong winds, numerous water bodies, and proactive environmental policies. Its approach to sustainability is one of the main reasons that it has kept pollution in check by minimizing vehicle emissions and industrial pollutants. Some popular spots to explore there are Lake Marble Falls and Balcones Canyonlands.
9. Port Aransas
Average AQI: 31
Located on Mustang Island, Port Aransas is a popular city and beach town, making it a great sunny getaway spot. Among the cleanest cities in Texas, Port Aransas happens to be one of the most popular ones. With strong coastal winds, limited automobile traffic, and oceanic breezes, air pollutants are consistently flushed out. Marine habitats, wetlands, and beach dunes surround the city, adding to the thrill of the visit.
10. Dripping Springs
Average AQI: 33
Dripping Springs is located near the capital, Austin, and is gaining popularity for its rural charm, scenic views, and clean environment. The suburban living with environmental mindfulness makes it an excellent destination to explore. There is strong environmental protection and minimal industrial presence, which keeps the AQI levels in check. The city’s eco-conscious culture is one factor that preserves air quality amid population growth.
Final Words
Texas is often synonymous with big cities, heavy industrial influence, and barbecue, all of which indicate a heavily polluted state. However, despite all that, there are numerous cities in the state that offer clean air quality. Beyond the health of the people, visiting these clean-air Texas cities ensures comfort when traipsing through the state.
