Observed annual mean PM_2.5 decreased by 30–50 % in China from 2013–2018. However, meteorologically PM_2.5 variability complicates trend attribution. We used a stepwise multiple linear regression model to quantitatively separate contributions from anthropogenic emissions and meteorology. Results show that 88 % of the PM_2.5 decrease across China is attributable to anthropogenic emission changes, and 12 % is attributable to meteorology.