- Allergy seasons can vary greatly depending on location, with some states experiencing higher pollen counts due to local vegetation and climate.
- States like Arizona, Nevada, and Utah are generally more favorable for allergy sufferers, while states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas have higher allergen levels.
- Even in low-allergen states, knowing peak pollen seasons and planning accordingly can help alleviate symptoms.
Allergies are a widespread issue in the United States, affecting over 50 million people, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)[*]. From sneezing fits and itchy eyes to more severe respiratory problems, allergies can make daily life challenging.
Pollen is one of the most common allergy triggers found nationwide, but their levels can be much higher in some states than others. Whether you’re a resident or planning a trip, knowing which states rank best and worst for pollen count in can help you prepare and manage your symptoms.
5 States with the Lowest Pollen Count
The states listed in the table below are considered favorable for allergy sufferers mainly because of their lower pollen counts, measured in PPM or pollen grains per cubic meter over a 24-hour period, which can help those sensitive to allergens. A lower PPM means fewer pollen particles in the air.
| State | Average Pollen Count |
| Arizona | 472 PPM |
| Nevada | 475 PPM |
| New Mexico | 491 PPM |
| California | 528 PPM |
| Utah | 580 PPM |
1. Arizona
Average Pollen Count: 472 PPM
Arizona is often considered a favorable location for allergy sufferers due to its dry desert climate. Arizona’s sparse vegetation means fewer trees and grasses that produce pollen. While trees like Olive, Mesquite, and Palo Verde do produce pollen, their impact is lessened due to the limited variety of vegetation.
In cities like Phoenix and Tucson, tree pollen is most common from late February to June, with mesquite, palo verde, and olive trees being major contributors. After that, grass pollen, particularly from Bermuda grass, becomes more prominent from May to July.
2. Nevada
Average Pollen Count: 475 PPM
With its vast deserts and dry air, Nevada minimizes exposure to allergens like pollen. The lack of significant vegetation in areas like Las Vegas means fewer natural allergy triggers, while the low humidity further reduces the risk of allergen growth. Nevada’s air quality is ideal for those seeking to avoid common irritants.
However, it's important to note that certain plants do thrive in this environment. Common contributors to pollen counts in Las Vegas include mulberry, olive, ash, pine, and sagebrush — although these plants are fewer in number compared to more vegetated areas.
3. New Mexico
Average Pollen Count: 491 PPM
New Mexico’s dry, arid climate naturally limits the presence of grass and tree pollen. The sparse vegetation and minimal humidity mean fewer triggers for those with seasonal allergies.
However, some plants, like juniper, cottonwood, and certain grasses, can still produce pollen and cause allergies during their respective pollination seasons.
4. California
Average Pollen Count: 528 PPM
The diverse geography of California (from coastal regions to inland valleys) offers unique options for allergy sufferers.
Coastal regions, like San Diego, have mild climates and reduced pollen levels due to ocean breezes, which can help disperse pollen and reduce their concentrations.
In contrast, the Central Valley, with its large agricultural activities, can have high pollen levels, especially during peak growing seasons. The crops grown there, particularly grasses and weeds, contribute a lot to the pollen count.
5. Utah
Average Pollen Count: 580 PPM
Utah’s high-altitude desert environment offers cleaner air and reduced allergen levels, especially in regions like Salt Lake City. The state’s natural landscapes create fewer opportunities for heavy pollen production.
Utah offers a more manageable allergy season for those sensitive to grasses and trees. Common allergens include juniper, cottonwood, sagebrush, and various grasses.
While overall allergen levels are lower than in more humid regions, allergy sufferers may still experience symptoms during peak pollen seasons.
5 States with the Highest Pollen Count
If you're planning to live in or visit one of these states, it's important to be prepared for high pollen counts and the allergy symptoms that come with them. Taking steps like monitoring pollen forecasts, using air purifiers, and managing symptoms with medications can help reduce the impact of allergens.
The following table highlights the five worst states for allergies.
| State | Average Pollen Count |
| Oklahoma | 6,280 PPM |
| Arkansas | 6,240 PPM |
| Kansas | 6,174 PPM |
| North Carolina | 6,100 PPM |
| Iowa | 5,900 PPM |
1. Oklahoma
Average Pollen Count: 6,280 PPM
Oklahoma experiences some of the highest pollen levels in the U.S. due to its mix of grasses, trees, and weeds. Bermuda grass and Timothy grass are prominent contributors during the summer months, while common trees such as oak, cedar, and juniper release substantial amounts of pollen in spring. Ragweed is a major allergenic plant in Oklahoma.
Moreover, the state’s windy conditions further spread allergens, which increases exposure for allergy sufferers.
2. Arkansas
Average Pollen Count: 6,240 PPM
Arkansas’s dense forests and high humidity levels create a haven for tree and grass pollen. Seasonal allergies are common, with spring and fall being particularly challenging for residents. Tree pollen is particularly prevalent in spring, while levels of ragweed pollen rise in late summer and fall.
3. Kansas
Average Pollen Count: 6,174 PPM
Kansas is challenging for allergy sufferers due to its high pollen levels, which is primarily due to the state's wide-open plains and windy conditions. These facilitate the spread of allergens, particularly from grasses and weeds.
The state's diverse plant life, including various grasses, trees, and weeds, combined with its climate, contributes to long and intense allergy seasons.
4. North Carolina
Average Pollen Count: 6,100 PPM
North Carolina’s long growing season and warm, humid climate encourage the growth of tree pollen and grasses. Residents often face allergy challenges nearly year-round.
Common tree allergens include pine, oak, hickory, and birch, while grasses such as Bermuda and fescue contribute significantly during the summer months. In the fall, ragweed becomes a major allergen.
5. Iowa
Average Pollen Count: 5,900 PPM
Iowa’s extensive agricultural activities and rural landscape contribute to high pollen counts, particularly from crops like corn and weeds such as ragweed, which can trigger severe allergy symptoms.
Note that corn itself does not produce significant amounts of pollen, but the large-scale farming of corn can contribute to agricultural dust, which may carry other allergens and irritants [*].
Summary
Pollen can be found in nearly every corner of the U.S., but understanding where they are most prevalent helps us take control.
Whether in states with lower pollen counts like Arizona and Nevada or in areas with high allergen levels like Oklahoma and Arkansas, it's important to monitor pollen forecasts and use strategies to minimize exposure.
Taking medications like Allermi nasal spray can help prevent symptoms before they start, in addition to using air purifiers, keeping windows closed during peak pollen times, and washing your hands and face after spending time outdoors.
References:
- Allergy Statistics In The US. (2020c, April 30). Allergy & Asthma Network. https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/allergy-statistics/
- Hofmann, F., Otto, M., & Wosniok, W. (2014). Maize pollen deposition in relation to distance from the nearest pollen source under common cultivation - results of 10 years of monitoring (2001 to 2010). Environmental Sciences Europe, 26(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12302-014-0024-3
