Fall Allergy Capitals

Fall is the season of sneezin’ for millions of Americans who have seasonal allergic rhinitis, also called nasal allergies. Where you live, the time of year and other factors can have a big impact on those with allergies.

Get Allergy Relief No Matter Where You Live

Nasal allergies affect more than 50 million Americans. This sends more than 16 million to doctors. It costs more than $17 billion in health costs (including buying inhalers costs). Sufferers miss more than 6 million work and school days each year.

"For over a decade, our Allergy Capitals rankings have reminded patients and doctors that nasal allergies affect families and communities nationwide," says Dr. Cary Sennett, AAFA’s President and CEO. "But, no matter where you live, you can get help from an allergist and learn how to manage your fall allergies better."

Fall Allergy Capitals™ is one of our yearly research projects. Our report lists cities where your symptoms and quality of life may be worse. We find the 100 most difficult places to live with allergies during the fall.

Each season, we look at:

  • Pollen scores (grass/tree/weed pollen and mold spores)
  • Number of allergy medicines each patient uses
  • Number of allergy doctors per patient

The five most challenging cities to live in with fall allergies this year are:

  1. Louisville, Kentucky
  2. Jackson, Mississippi
  3. McAllen, Texas
  4. Memphis, Tennessee
  5. Syracuse, New York

2015 Regional Rankings

No. 1 in the Midwest – Dayton, Ohio

No. 1 in the Northeast – Syracuse, New York

No. 1 in the South – Louisville, Kentucky

No. 1 in the West – Tucson, Arizona

This year’s report named Louisville, Kentucky, as the top Fall Allergy Capital. It has:

  • Higher than average pollen
  • Higher than average medicine use

Talk to your doctor about your allergies. Discuss changes in your allergy plan.