Rochester Ranked Among Nation’s Worst Cities for Allergies: What’s Driving the Surge?
Rochester, New York has climbed to the fifth-worst city in the U.S. For allergy sufferers, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s (AAFA) 2026 Allergy Capitals report. This marks a significant jump from its 85th-place ranking just last year, raising concerns about the increasing intensity and duration of allergy seasons.
The Perfect Storm: Climate Change and Pollen
Across the country, allergy seasons are becoming longer and more intense. Researchers point to a confluence of factors, with climate change playing a central role. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, like those experienced in Rochester last year, create ideal conditions for higher pollen production. “It could be the types of trees,” explained Hannah Jaffee, director of research for AAFA, “But it could likewise just be this perfect storm of weather and climate that is just making the pollen more intense or last longer in the area.”
The AAFA report considers three key criteria: the amount of tree, grass, and weed pollen; over-the-counter allergy medicine sales; and the availability of allergy specialists. Rochester’s rise in the rankings suggests a substantial increase in all three areas.
Beyond Rochester: A National Trend
Rochester isn’t alone. Boise, Idaho, now tops the list, driven by earlier and longer tree pollen seasons and a limited number of allergy specialists. The AAFA highlights that extreme weather events – including atmospheric rivers, warmer temperatures, and drought – are contributing to these longer, more intense pollen seasons nationwide.
Kenneth Mendez, President and CEO of AAFA, emphasized the broader health implications: “Allergies disrupt sleep, undermine concentration, keep children home from school, and keep adults from work. We are experiencing a widening health threat fueled by climate change.”
What Can Allergy Sufferers Do?
Local allergy specialists are seeing an increase in patient reports of worsening symptoms. Dr. Emily Weis, clinical director of allergy and immunology at the University of Rochester, notes the importance of individualized treatment. “Depending on what your own individual sensitivities are, you may feel it more during certain seasons if that particular pollen that you’re sensitized to is present.” She also stresses the importance of seeking professional help, noting Rochester has an “extensive network of specialists to provide excellent care to our community.”
Prevention is key. The AAFA recommends several steps to manage allergy symptoms:
- Check daily pollen counts in your area.
- Remove shoes and clothing upon entering your home.
- Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair.
- Use air filters in your home.
The Future of Allergy Seasons
Experts predict that as climate change continues, allergy seasons will likely become even more prolonged and severe. This will necessitate a greater focus on preventative measures and access to allergy care. The AAFA report serves as a call to action for policymakers to address climate change and its impact on public health.
FAQ: Allergy Capitals Report 2026
Q: What criteria does the AAFA use to rank cities?
A: The AAFA considers pollen levels (tree, grass, and weed), over-the-counter allergy medicine sales, and the availability of allergy specialists.
Q: Is climate change directly linked to worsening allergies?
A: Yes, extreme weather events and changing temperatures contribute to longer and more intense pollen seasons.
Q: What can I do to reduce my allergy symptoms?
A: Check pollen counts, remove shoes/clothes indoors, shower before bed, and use air filters.
Q: Where can I uncover the full Allergy Capitals report?
A: The full report is available at aafa.org.
Did you know? More than 106 million people in the U.S. Experience allergies each year.
Have you noticed a change in your allergy symptoms recently? Share your experiences in the comments below!
