The 5 Worst U.S. Cities for Allergies in 2026, Ranked
If your allergies are already unbearable this spring, you’re not alone. More than 82 million Americans have itchy eyes, watery nose, and scratchy throat. There are a few things you can do before you start sneezing to get ahead of symptoms, like taking allergy meds every day, and keeping your house wiped down.
Allergies are worse in some cities than others, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Every year, they produce an Allergy Capitals report, which ranks the 100 most populated U.S. metro areas according to grass, tree, and weed pollen levels, that serves as the metrics for an overall score. These scores are based on:
- Tree, grass, and weed pollen scores (how many days each city has high or very high pollen counts)
- Over-the-counter allergy medicine use
- Availability of board-certified allergists/immunologists
Here’s the Top five cities hit the hardest.
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has forests of pine trees that spread clouds of yellow pollen dust on cars, homes, and sidewalks.
Allergy score: 93.9
Spokane, Washington
Alder, birch, and cedar trees are the main instigator in spring. Hot, dry summers allow pollen from Bermuda and Timothy grass to stay in the air longer. During fall, ragweed is prevalent. Some people are allergic to some but not all allergens.
Allergy score: 93.3
Ogden Utah
Winter kicks off allergy season when tree pollen from box elder, juniper, maple, and oak is prevalent. By late spring, grass pollen arrives. Mold spores join the party in winter, too.
Allergy score: 94.46
Raleigh, North Carolina
Home to the Research Triangle, a popular place to live, work, and play. Allergies get an extended season here with plants starting to release their allergens earlier and the warm weather hangs on. Pine pollen coats everything outside until washed away by rain.
Allergy score: 94.47
Wichita, Kansas
This city has beautiful Eastern red cedar trees that bloom in January. Although it’s not THE “windy city,” it can get gusty, carrying allergens from the state’s sprawling grasslands during summer.
Allergy score: 95.27
Even if you don’t live in one of these cities, allergy season can still hit hard depending on daily pollen levels and weather patterns. Experts recommend checking local forecasts, keeping windows closed during high pollen days, and starting medications before symptoms peak.