Is Your City an Allergy Hotspot? Discover the Top Allergy Capitals and Essential Coping Tips!

Seasonal allergies can significantly affect your quality of life, especially if you live in one of the U.S. cities identified as “allergy capitals.” Recent findings from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America indicate that certain areas of the country experience alarming levels of pollen, making them particularly challenging for allergy sufferers. In this article, we will explore these allergy capitals, the effects of climate change on pollen seasons, and strategies to manage your allergies effectively.

If you’ve been experiencing an uptick in sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes, it’s worth considering your location. According to the 2025 rankings by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, some cities are significantly worse for those allergic to pollen, primarily due to high pollen counts.

Understanding Pollen Allergies

Pollen consists of tiny particles released into the air by flowers, plants, trees, grass, and weeds. These particles can travel hundreds of miles, making them a constant presence in our environment. Dr. William Anderson, clinical medical director of the Allergy and Immunology Clinic at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, states that we are continuously exposed to pollen.

For individuals with pollen allergies, their bodies produce antibodies that target pollen when they come into contact with it. Dr. Ahmed Soliman, director of the Temple Head & Neck Institute, elaborates that this reaction triggers mast cells in the bloodstream to release histamine, leading to allergic symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Red, watery eyes

There are three primary types of pollen responsible for allergies:

1. Tree pollen: Typically prominent in spring.
2. Grass pollen: Peaks during summer.
3. Weed pollen: Often spikes in fall, especially ragweed.

Allergy responses can differ significantly from person to person based on individual immune systems. As Dr. Anderson explains, “One person may be allergic to grass pollen, while another may react to tree pollen.” The manner of exposure also influences symptoms. Nasal exposure may lead to more respiratory issues, while skin contact can cause rashes.

Top Cities for Seasonal Allergies

Researchers analyzed data on pollen scores, the use of over-the-counter medications, and access to allergist specialists to ascertain the cities most impacted by pollen in 2024. For the third consecutive year, Wichita, Kansas, topped the list of allergy capitals.

The following cities ranked in the top five:

1. Wichita, Kansas
2. New Orleans, Louisiana
3. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
4. Tulsa, Oklahoma
5. Memphis, Tennessee

In these cities, the severity of pollen can vary by the type and time of year. For instance, tree pollen is problematic in March and April in Austin and Las Vegas, while grass pollen poses a significant risk in Richmond, Virginia, and Rochester, New York, during May and June. However, areas like Bakersfield, California, and Boston struggle with weed pollen primarily in September and October.

In general, areas located in the southern and eastern United States endure the highest pollen counts, largely due to warmer and wetter climates that are conducive to plant growth.

The Impact of Climate Change on Pollen

Climate change is increasingly recognized as exacerbating allergy season across the country. As temperatures rise, the timelines for frost shifts, causing plants to release pollen over extended periods. Dr. Anderson notes, “This will likely result in more individuals developing allergies, and existing allergies becoming more severe.”

Research suggests that pollen seasons now start approximately 20 days earlier and last about 10 days longer than they did 30 years ago. Projections estimate that by the end of the century, spring pollen seasons could begin up to 40 days earlier while summer and fall seasons may extend 15 days longer. Additionally, warming temperatures enhance both the length and intensity of the pollen season since plants grow better and release more pollen in favorable conditions.

Is Moving an Effective Solution?

If you find yourself in one of the top-ranked allergy capitals, you may wonder if moving would help alleviate your symptoms. However, experts advise against this approach. Even if you relocate to a city with lower pollen counts, exposure to different types of pollen can trigger new allergies.

The ranking system takes into account not only pollen scores but also medication usage and the availability of allergists. Consequently, a city with lower pollen levels might still have high medication use, indicating that residents require significant relief from their allergy symptoms. Furthermore, many regions lack certified allergists, which can impede access to the necessary care.

Before considering a move, see an allergist for testing. “This information will help guide treatment and inform you when to be most cautious,” says Dr. Anderson.

Effective Strategies for Managing Seasonal Allergies

Fortunately, several treatments can offer relief for those suffering from seasonal allergies:

• Corticosteroid nasal sprays: Effective for reducing inflammation.
• Oral and topical antihistamines: Medications like loratadine and cetirizine can alleviate symptoms.
• Immunotherapy: This may involve injections or sublingual methods to build immunity.

Over-the-counter solutions like nasal rinses can help clear sinuses. Eye drops can soothe symptoms such as burning and swelling, while decongestants provide short term relief.

In addition to medical treatments, lifestyle changes are crucial in managing allergies:

• Stay indoors during high pollen days.
• Use air conditioning and HEPA filters.
• Keep your home clean by washing bedding and surfaces regularly.
• Wear a hat or mask when going outside on high pollen days.

With pollen levels increasing and affecting many, it’s essential to take proactive measures for management. Armed with knowledge and strategies, allergy sufferers can enjoy a better quality of life, regardless of where they live, including prominent allergy capitals like Wichita, Kansas.