Rochester Climbs to 5th Worst City for Allergies

New report cites climate change as driving longer, more intense allergy seasons nationwide

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America's (AAFA) 2026 Allergy Capitals report, Rochester, New York has jumped from 85th to 5th worst city in the U.S. for allergy sufferers. Researchers point to a 'perfect storm' of climate change factors, including warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, that are leading to higher pollen production and longer allergy seasons across the country.

Why it matters

The worsening allergy crisis has broad public health implications, disrupting sleep, concentration, school and work attendance. Experts warn that as climate change continues, allergy seasons will likely become even more severe, necessitating greater focus on prevention and access to allergy care.

The details

Rochester's rise in the rankings is driven by substantial increases in tree, grass, and weed pollen, over-the-counter allergy medicine sales, and the availability of allergy specialists. Nationwide, Boise, Idaho now tops the list, with earlier and longer tree pollen seasons and a limited number of allergy providers.

  • The AAFA's 2026 Allergy Capitals report was released on March 10, 2026.
  • Rochester jumped from 85th place in the 2025 report to 5th place in the 2026 report.

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.

Hannah Jaffee

Director of research for the AAFA.

Kenneth Mendez

President and CEO of the AAFA.

Dr. Emily Weis

Clinical director of allergy and immunology at the University of Rochester.

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What they’re saying

“It could be the types of trees, 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.”

— Hannah Jaffee, Director of research, AAFA (newsy-today.com)

“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.”

— Kenneth Mendez, President and CEO, AAFA (newsy-today.com)

“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.”

— Dr. Emily Weis, Clinical director of allergy and immunology, University of Rochester (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The AAFA report serves as a call to action for policymakers to address climate change and its impact on public health.

The takeaway

As climate change continues to drive longer and more intense allergy seasons, individuals and communities will need to focus on prevention strategies and ensuring access to high-quality allergy care in order to mitigate the growing public health crisis.