Worst cities for allergies in America: Live pollen count rankings
Millions of Americans struggle with seasonal allergies, and certain cities make it even worse. Our real-time pollen data follows NAB guidelines and tracks tree, weed, and grass pollen levels to highlight the toughest places for allergy sufferers. Check the latest rankings to stay prepared and manage your allergies better.
Current pollen rankings: Worst allergy cities in the US
Last updated - (Local time)
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| Rank | City | Pollen Risk Level | Tree Pollen | Grass Pollen | Weed Pollen |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Understanding pollen levels and health impact in the US
The following table shows the risk level for each type of pollen derived by applying universal guidelines to our data and taking percentile values from the extended season for each type of pollen.
Here's a breakdown of the color schemes we use for our heatmaps and risk levels.
| Color Scheme | Risk Level | Tree (ppm) | Weed (ppm) | Grass (ppm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Green | Low | 0 - 95 | 0 - 20 | 0 - 29 |
Yellow | Moderate | 96 - 207 | 21 - 77 | 30 - 60 |
Orange | High | 208 - 703 | 78 - 266 | 61 - 341 |
Red | Very high | 704+ | 267+ | 342+ |
Pollen counts aren't just numbers – they directly affect breathing, comfort, and daily activities for millions of Americans. In cities with the worst allergies, residents often experience:
How accurate is our US pollen data?
Tips for managing allergies in high-pollen cities US cities
Use Ambee’s real-time pollen count data to track levels in your area.
Access hyperlocal pollen data for businesses or developers.
Invest in HEPA filters to reduce indoor allergens.
Keep windows closed and clean regularly.
Wear masks and shower after being outdoors.
Discuss medications and allergy testing.
Stay hydrated and opt for indoor workouts on high-pollen days.
Why are southern US cities so bad for allergies?
The southern US is notorious for being one of the worst regions for allergy sufferers. Cities like Atlanta, Dallas, and Raleigh consistently rank high for pollen counts due to several factors:
The South’s long growing season allows plants to produce pollen for most of the year.
Moisture in the air helps pollen thrive and spread more easily.
The region is home to a diverse range of trees, grasses, and weeds, including oak, pine, and ragweed, which are major allergy triggers.
Rapid urbanization has led to the planting of male trees (which produce more pollen) and increased exposure to allergens.
If you live in the South, staying informed about pollen levels and taking proactive steps to manage your allergies is crucial.
The role of ragweed in US allergies
Ragweed is one of the most common causes of seasonal allergies in the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast. Here’s why ragweed is such a problem:
A single ragweed plant can produce up to 1 billion pollen grains per season.
Ragweed grows in almost every state, making it a nationwide issue for allergy sufferers.
Ragweed pollen typically peaks in late summer and fall, extending the allergy season for many Americans.
Ragweed pollen can trigger severe symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and even asthma attacks.
To minimize ragweed exposure, monitor pollen counts, keep windows closed during peak seasons, and shower after spending time outdoors.
Guide to pollen and allergies across the US and UK
Whether you're battling high pollen counts or seeking relief in low-allergy cities, we’ve got you covered. Explore our detailed guides to stay informed and manage your allergies better.
Low-allergy cities in US
Explore the best US cities for allergy sufferers, where pollen counts are consistently low, and breathing is easier.
Low-allergy cities in UK
Learn about the UK cities with the lowest pollen counts and how they can provide relief for allergy sufferers.
Worst pollen cities in UK
Find out which UK cities are the toughest for allergy sufferers and get tips for coping with high pollen levels.
Frequently asked questions
How often is Ambee pollen data updated for the US?
Ambee pollen data is updated every hour, providing real-time insights into pollen levels across the United States.
What time of year is pollen count highest in the US?
Pollen counts peak in spring (tree pollen: March to May), summer (grass pollen: May to July), and fall (weed pollen: August to October, especially ragweed).
Which types of pollen cause the worst allergies in the US?
The most common allergens are tree pollen (oak, birch, cedar), grass pollen (Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass), and weed pollen (ragweed, which is particularly problematic in the Midwest and Northeast).
Why are Southern US cities so bad for allergies?
Southern cities like Atlanta and Dallas have high pollen counts due to their warm climate, long growing season, abundant vegetation (oak, pine, ragweed), and urban sprawl.
What makes a city bad for allergies in the US?
Cities rank poorly for allergies due to high pollen counts, favorable climate conditions for pollen production, and urban factors like pollution and vegetation choices.
Are coastal cities better for allergy sufferers in the US?
Yes, coastal cities like San Francisco and Seattle often have lower pollen counts due to cooler temperatures and ocean breezes, making them better for allergy sufferers.
How does ragweed affect allergies in the US?
Ragweed is a major allergen in the US, producing billions of pollen grains and triggering severe symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma, especially in the Midwest and Northeast.
Can weather conditions affect pollen counts in the US?
Yes, windy days increase pollen dispersal, rain can temporarily lower pollen levels, and high humidity helps pollen thrive.
What are the best US cities for allergy sufferers?
Cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and Denver tend to have lower pollen counts due to their climate and vegetation.
How do I know which pollen is affecting me?
Allergy testing, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, can help identify specific allergens, and tracking local pollen counts can provide additional clues.
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