The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America released the 2026 Allergy Capitals Report, with two Utah cities listed in the top ten and another in the top 20. In fact, Utah is the only state in the country with more than one or two cities on the list.
Provo, Utah, is listed as the fourth-most difficult place to live for those with pollen allergies, with Ogden following at No. 8. Salt Lake City is in the top 20, ranking at No. 13.
To indicate the pollen capitals of the United States, the allergy report takes into account the area’s tree, grass and weed pollen scores, over-the-counter allergy medicine use and the availability of board-certified allergists.
According to experts, Utah being a notorious allergy hotspot is due to its dry, windy climate combined with its variety of pollen-producing plants and extended spring season. Utah trees pollinate between February and May, leaving behind airborne pollen throughout the late spring and early summer.
While the three Utah cities on the list are all within the northern part of the state, allergies can still be a problem in southern areas like Cedar City and St. George.
Allergies are almost entirely unpreventable, but residents can minimize their risk by monitoring pollen levels and remaining indoors during dry or windy days. Wearing a hat or sunglasses can reduce the risk of pollen entering the eyes or mouth while outdoors.
For more information on allergy prevention or Utah pollen reports, visit the Allergy Associates of Utah website.
Author: Briar Adams
Photo: Courtesy of Utah Valley Pediatrics
Editor: Payson Davis
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