This study focused on the variation characteristics of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ concentrations and general source types in 2014~2018 in five typical small-medium basin cities (Lanzhou, Yinchuan, Linfen, Taiyuan and Nanyang) in northern China. Apart from the PM_2.5 concentrations in 2018 in Yinchuan, the PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations in the other cities are above the level of the 2nd grade standard of the state; The PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations show a downward trend year by year, with the most obvious city being Nanyang; The PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations show an increasing trend year by year in Linfen; The PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations are stable at a high level in Taiyuan. Seasonal variation characteristics of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations are similar:high concentrations in winter and spring, low in summer and autumn. The ratios of PM_2.5/PM₁₀ are greater in winter and summer, resulting from the heating process and frequent rainfall, respectively. The ratios are lower in spring and autumn, resulting from sandstorms and frequent straw combustion as well as high-strength construction of building, respectively. The PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ concentrations have a good linear relationship, The proportion of fine particles is in order of Linfen > Nanyang > Taiyuan > Yinchuan > Lanzhou.