- 82–106 million Americans have some form of allergy or asthma
- Pollen season has extended by 20+ days since 1990 across North America
- Pollen concentration has increased 21% since 1990 — and is still rising
- $18 billion: annual economic impact of allergic rhinitis in the United States
- Seasonal allergies affect 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 children in the US
Prevalence Statistics
Seasonal allergies affect people of all ages, but prevalence peaks in the 18–44 age bracket. Women are consistently more affected than men across all age groups. The highest geographic concentration of severe allergy sufferers is in the Southeast and South Central United States.
Pollen Trend Data
Economic Impact
Academic Impact
A UK study of 1,834 students aged 15–17 sitting GCSEs during grass pollen season found that students who developed symptomatic allergic rhinitis during exam week were significantly more likely to drop at least one grade in core subjects (English, Maths, Science). The 43% of symptomatic students who dropped grades vs control group represents one of the clearest demonstrations of allergy's real-world cognitive impact.
Sleep and Quality of Life
Climate Projections
Under all plausible climate scenarios, pollen season length and concentration are projected to continue increasing through at least 2050. Research published in Allergy (Wiley, 2026) calls for urgent public health action given the intersection of rising temperatures, increasing CO2 levels, and accelerating pollen allergenic potency. The 106 million Americans currently living with allergies and asthma are expected to be joined by millions more as sensitization rates increase with exposure.
Top 10 Allergy Capitals in the US (AAFA 2026)
| Rank | City | Key Allergen | Season Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wichita, KS | Tree + Ragweed | Extreme |
| 2 | Virginia Beach, VA | Tree pollen | Extreme |
| 3 | Greenville, SC | Oak + Grass | Extreme |
| 4 | Dallas, TX | Cedar + Oak | Extreme |
| 5 | Oklahoma City, OK | Cedar + Ragweed | Extreme |
| 6 | Tulsa, OK | Ragweed | Extreme |
| 7 | Memphis, TN | Tree + Grass | High |
| 8 | Richmond, VA | Tree pollen | High |
| 9 | San Antonio, TX | Cedar + Oak | High |
| 10 | New Haven, CT | Tree + Ragweed | High |
Your personal allergy intelligence.
Anthos gives you real-time data for your specific location — not national averages. Know your count, your species, your window.
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Anthos provides general wellness information only. Nothing in this article constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making health decisions.