Below you can find the list of 10 worst U.S. cities for allergies. For our methodology and a more comprehensive list please see this article.
10. Cleveland
Allergen Sensitization Index – 662
The overlapping tree pollen season and grass pollen seasons this year, has caused prolonged allergy season in the region. Climate change has played a role in worsening of symptoms. Cleveland is also one of the top cities for animal allergens.
9. Atlanta
Allergen Sensitization Index – 668
House dust mites sensitization rates are high in Atlanta at 28%. Also, pollen season has been getting longer due to the warming of temperatures in the city that experienced cooler springs earlier.
8. Cincinnati
Allergen Sensitization Index – 670
Cincinnati has the third highest sensitization rates for food allergies. Mold levels have been high recently and weather change can be held accountable for pollen irritants mostly produced by grass.
7. Chicago
Allergen Sensitization Index – 672
March to June are pollination season for Chicago, however, mold irritants are the notorious allergens in the region. The mold problem starts around September and stays put until the high frost.
6. Philadelphia
Allergen Sensitization Index – 675
Philadelphia’s sensitization rates are on the higher side for all 5 common allergens. Sunny Philadelphia weather might not be a blessing for those with seasonal allergies.
5. Boston
Allergen Sensitization Index – 682
Boston has it quite bad when it comes to allergies and appears in the top 5 for animals, dust mites and food allergies. Seasons have been dry lately, aggravating the pollen problem.
4. Washington, D.C.
Allergen Sensitization Index – 688
Increasing frost free days is not great news for everyone, especially in the Washington D.C. The area has a large diversity of trees which causes more pollen in the air. However, pollen isn’t the only problem as food allergies are also quite high in the city.
3. Baltimore
Allergen Sensitization Index – 692
Even though all kinds of allergen sensitization is high in Baltimore, the city tops in sensitization rates to food allergy. Looking for allergy-friendly dining options is a good idea.
2. Phoenix
Allergen Sensitization Index – 695
Phoenix is overall not a good place to be in if you are suffering from allergies. It is by far the worst city for ragweed pollen allergies. Abundance of other desert plants too can aggravate pollen allergies. While mesquite landscaping is a popular choice, you might not be a fan if you are a person with allergies.
1. Dallas
Allergen Sensitization Index – 697
If you are someone with allergies, Dallas might be the place to avoid. It is the top city for mold sensitization and also among the top 5 for ragweed pollen allergies. With allergy sensitization rate touching a 697, Dallas is by far the worst major city for allergies.
See also 20 cities with the best air quality in the U.S. and 10 states with the highest asthma rates in the U.S.