Boise Tops List of Worst Cities for Pollen Allergies in 2026

Western cities dominate ranking as climate change exacerbates seasonal allergies

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:54pm

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The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has released its annual list of the 20 worst cities for pollen allergies, with Boise, Idaho taking the top spot. The report cites extreme weather patterns like atmospheric rivers, warmer temperatures, and drought in the West as key factors driving longer and more severe pollen seasons in many Western cities. Utah has the most cities on the list, with three areas experiencing worse-than-average pollen counts.

Why it matters

Seasonal allergies are worsening due to climate change, with pollen seasons starting earlier, lasting longer, and affecting more people. This report highlights the growing public health challenge posed by pollen allergies, which can lead to debilitating symptoms and exacerbate other conditions like asthma and eczema.

The details

The AAFA report looks at tree, grass and weed pollen counts throughout the year, noting that warmer temperatures can trap heat in urban areas and stimulate pollen production. Extreme weather events like atmospheric rivers have also contributed to longer and more severe pollen seasons in many Western cities. The report provides tips for managing allergy symptoms, including using over-the-counter medications, getting allergy shots, and making lifestyle changes like staying indoors on high pollen days.

  • The AAFA released its 2026 report on March 16, 2026.
  • Pollen seasons generally run from February through April, but some southern states can begin producing pollen as early as December or January.

The players

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)

A non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and quality of life for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions through research, education, advocacy and support.

Boise, Idaho

The city ranked as the worst place to live with pollen allergies in 2026 according to the AAFA report.

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What’s next

The AAFA report provides recommendations for managing allergy symptoms, including using over-the-counter medications, getting allergy shots, and making lifestyle changes like staying indoors on high pollen days. The report also highlights the need for further research and policy action to address the growing public health challenge posed by worsening seasonal allergies.

The takeaway

As climate change drives longer and more severe pollen seasons, the AAFA report underscores the growing public health burden of seasonal allergies, especially in Western cities like Boise that are experiencing the worst pollen conditions. Addressing this challenge will require a multi-pronged approach of medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and policy action to mitigate the impacts of a warming climate.