Pollution Rankings in the United States

United States
Worldwide
United States

The pollution ranking for the United States is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

Hightest to LowestUpdated: Dec, 2024
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA
#1 in Pollution (#101 worldwide)
Air quality in Los Angeles presents ongoing challenges, with pollution stemming from urban activities like traffic and industrial emissions. The city grapples with moderate air quality issues, particularly concerning PM2.5 and PM10 levels, raising questions about long-term health impacts on residents.
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City, UT
#2 in Pollution (#126 worldwide)
Air quality in Salt Lake City remains a concern, with certain pollutants contributing to the overall moderate pollution level. However, urban efforts to improve air quality are ongoing and crucial for future health and environmental stability. Particulate matter levels, specifically PM2.5 and PM10, are moderate, suggesting that continued efforts are needed to maintain and improve air conditions.
Detroit, MI
Detroit, MI
#3 in Pollution (#131 worldwide)
Pollution remains a crucial issue in Detroit, with air quality concerns persistently affecting the population. Urbanization and industrial activities continue to contribute significantly to pollution levels. Public sentiment reveals unease about air quality, highlighting the need for robust environmental policies and enforcement to mitigate health risks.
New York, NY
New York, NY
#4 in Pollution (#153 worldwide)
New York City has made significant progress in improving air quality, but pollution levels remain a concern. Air quality issues are most prominent in highly urbanized areas, with traffic and industrial emissions contributing to the pollution levels. The city's air quality is moderate, with particular issues related to particulate matter. New Yorkers continue to voice concerns over the long-term health effects of air pollution.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
#5 in Pollution (#157 worldwide)
Phoenix faces challenges with air quality, marked by moderate pollution indices largely due to PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Urban pollution remains a significant issue, impacting health and lifestyle. Air quality measurement highlights concerns, with a negative perception surrounding air cleanliness, especially in busy, traffic-heavy areas.
Houston, TX
Houston, TX
#6 in Pollution (#162 worldwide)
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans, LA
#7 in Pollution (#183 worldwide)
New Orleans experiences moderate pollution concerns, with efforts required to enhance its air quality. Urban emissions and industrial activities contribute to pollution worries among residents. The city's air quality is perceived as moderate, with particular attention to particulate matter levels reflecting these public concerns.
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas, NV
#8 in Pollution (#185 worldwide)
Las Vegas has targeted improvements in air quality, yet challenges remain with urban pollution primarily driven by traffic and industrial emissions. Air quality is reasonable but concerns persist, particularly regarding particulate matter affecting health.
Chicago, IL
Chicago, IL
#9 in Pollution (#188 worldwide)
Air quality in Chicago has seen moderate improvements, though pollution remains a point of concern. Traffic and industrial emissions are principal contributors to air pollution, particularly in heavily populated zones. The city's air quality is considered moderate, with notable volatility in particulate matter levels, impacting residents' health and comfort.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco, CA
#10 in Pollution (#191 worldwide)
San Francisco's air quality shows moderate improvement, yet pollution levels continue to present challenges. Contributors such as traffic and industrial outputs are ongoing issues. While the air quality is relatively manageable, ongoing public concern emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and improvement efforts.
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA
#11 in Pollution (#194 worldwide)
San Jose sees improvements in air quality, though challenges remain. The city's moderate air quality is primarily affected by urban emissions and industrial activities. Public concerns persist regarding the implications of air pollution, particularly around particulate matter concentrations.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA
#12 in Pollution (#200 worldwide)
Philadelphia has made strides in improving air quality, though pollution, particularly from PM10 particles, remains a concern. While air quality improvements are appreciated, there is a lingering concern over the long-term health effects of ongoing pollution.
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
#13 in Pollution (#202 worldwide)
Pittsburgh has made noticeable strides in enhancing its air quality, with pollution levels largely contained. While particulate levels remain a point of attention, they are within manageable bounds. Most residents express contentment with the air quality improvements, though they remain cautious about the health implications of remaining pollution levels.
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA
#14 in Pollution (#205 worldwide)
Sacramento exhibits moderate air quality levels in 2024, with improvements seen in recent years but with ongoing concerns due to urban emissions and particulates. The presence of pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10 is an important consideration for local health authorities, particularly affecting vulnerable population groups.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta, GA
#15 in Pollution (#213 worldwide)
In 2024, Atlanta's air quality shows moderate improvement, though pollution remains a concern due to industrial emissions and traffic. These factors contribute to varying levels of particulate matter, affecting air quality perception. Public attention focuses on the health implications of air pollution, as levels of particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10 stay within moderate ranges but pose potential risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.
Denver, CO
Denver, CO
#16 in Pollution (#214 worldwide)
Air quality in Denver is moderate with ongoing concerns about pollution, driven by urban development and natural geographic conditions that occasionally worsen air conditions. Despite these issues, public feedback indicates an increasing satisfaction with measures taken to manage air quality.
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX
#17 in Pollution (#215 worldwide)
San Antonio is praised for its moderate air quality levels in 2024, benefiting from lower pollution indices and consistent air quality management. Residents generally express contentment with the atmospheric conditions, although there remains a cautious outlook on potential pollution impacts.
Austin, TX
Austin, TX
#18 in Pollution (#217 worldwide)
Austin has made notable progress in air quality improvements, providing residents with a healthier environment. Although particulate levels such as PM2.5 and PM10 are monitored closely, the city's air quality is generally well-regarded. Public perception emphasizes a moderate air quality, reflecting satisfaction with ongoing environmental policies and their impact on health and quality of life.
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis, IN
#19 in Pollution (#218 worldwide)
Indianapolis has made strides in improving its air quality; however, pollution levels remain an area of concern. Industrial and traffic emissions significantly contribute to pollution, especially in urban zones. The city's air quality is rated as moderate, with ongoing attention required to address particulate matter and its health implications.
Washington, DC
Washington, DC
#20 in Pollution (#223 worldwide)
Washington, DC has shown notable improvements in air quality, yet pollution remains a challenge in certain urban sectors. Traffic and industrial activities are key contributors to pollution levels. The city's air quality is generally rated as moderate, with specific concerns around particulate matter and its long-term health implications.
Dallas, TX
Dallas, TX
#21 in Pollution (#226 worldwide)
Oakland, CA
Oakland, CA
#22 in Pollution (#228 worldwide)
Oakland's air quality in 2024 shows signs of improvement but remains a concern due to urban pollution sources. The city is working to manage pollution levels across various districts. Overall, air quality is perceived as satisfactory, yet there are ongoing challenges related to particulate matter that require attention.
San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA
#23 in Pollution (#230 worldwide)
San Diego has successfully achieved significant improvements in air quality, with pollution levels mostly within acceptable limits. The city's ongoing efforts in reducing emissions have been reflected in the public's positive perception. Air quality is ranked favorably, with manageable levels of particulate matter, contributing to a healthier living environment for residents.
Miami, FL
Miami, FL
#24 in Pollution (#232 worldwide)
Miami has taken notable steps to ensure its air remains clean, reflected in the positive air quality index. Nevertheless, urban pollution remains a concern, primarily from transportation emissions and other local sources. Pollution levels are generally within the moderate range, but public sentiment stresses continued vigilance to maintain air quality standards.
Jacksonville, FL
Jacksonville, FL
#25 in Pollution (#233 worldwide)
Jacksonville has made strides in maintaining a relatively good air quality standard, benefiting from its green spaces and efforts to manage industrial emissions. Overall, the city's pollution index is low, but public opinions still highlight concerns, notably in urbanized zones where traffic may contribute to particulate matter levels.
Nashville, TN
Nashville, TN
#26 in Pollution (#240 worldwide)
Nashville has made commendable strides in enhancing air quality, although urban pollution remains a topic of concern, particularly in heavily trafficked areas. The city's air quality is generally viewed positively, despite minor issues with particulate matter which are still being addressed.
Honolulu, HI
Honolulu, HI
#27 in Pollution (#241 worldwide)
Honolulu stands out for its excellent air quality, largely due to its favorable geographic conditions and initiatives to maintain urban environmental standards. Nonetheless, pollution challenges persist, though at mild levels. The city's air is notably clean, with minimal pollution from particulate matter, which is a positive aspect residents frequently commend.
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, NC
#28 in Pollution (#247 worldwide)
Charlotte enjoys a favorable perception of air quality, with the city consistently working to maintain healthy pollution levels through effective environmental policies. Residents appreciate the moderate air quality, noting occasional challenges regarding particulate matter in certain areas, but overall, the city maintains a positive standing.
Orlando, FL
Orlando, FL
#29 in Pollution (#249 worldwide)
Orlando's air quality has shown improvements, and pollution levels are generally low. The city's commitment to maintaining clean air standards is evident, especially in residential and industrial areas. Overall, the air quality in Orlando is considered good, with positive public feedback on air cleanliness and minimal issues reported around particulate matter.
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque, NM
#30 in Pollution (#250 worldwide)
Albuquerque has shown improvements in air quality, maintaining a lower pollution level, yet challenges remain in some urban areas due to emissions from vehicles and industrial activities. Residents express positive views on the air quality, appreciating the adequate levels of particulate matter but remain cautious about potential health implications.
Seattle, WA
Seattle, WA
#31 in Pollution (#258 worldwide)
Seattle has made commendable progress in maintaining a healthy environment, with air quality being a positive highlight. Urban green initiatives have played a crucial role in preserving clean air, putting Seattle ahead of many urban centers. The city's pollution index suggests relatively low overall pollution levels, with particular attention paid to controlling particulate matter.
Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL
#32 in Pollution (#260 worldwide)
Tampa's air quality in 2024 is notably good, achieving improvements that resonate positively with the public. However, pollution still presents issues in specific areas, largely influenced by traffic and industrial activities. The city's air quality is generally perceived as positive, prompting a favorable outlook among residents regarding environmental conditions.
Kansas City, MO
Kansas City, MO
#33 in Pollution (#261 worldwide)
Kansas City in 2024 has made progress in managing its pollution levels, especially concerning air quality. With moderate pollution levels, the city's air quality is influenced by urbanization and industrial factors. Citizens express satisfaction with the air quality improvements, yet continue to express concerns about the potential health implications of air pollution, especially in densely populated areas.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, WI
#34 in Pollution (#262 worldwide)
Milwaukee's air quality shows improvement with generally moderate pollution levels, driven by traffic and industrial activities. Although the air quality index reflects a generally positive trajectory, residents continue to worry about the health implications of particulate matter.
Portland, OR
Portland, OR
#35 in Pollution (#264 worldwide)
Portland has made notable progress in air quality, yet pollution remains a pressing issue, especially in densely populated sectors. Air quality remains a sensitive topic among Portlanders, reflecting broader environmental concerns. The city maintains a moderate air quality rating, primarily challenged by particulate matter, which continuously poses health risks despite being within acceptable limits.
Richmond, VA
Richmond, VA
#36 in Pollution (#265 worldwide)
Richmond has generally positive air quality, but there are areas, particularly urban centers, where air pollution could pose challenges. The city's air quality status is largely seen as moderate, supported by adequate levels of air cleanliness throughout much of the community. Residents express confidence in the city's air quality, with robust PM2.5 and PM10 metrics that are within acceptable limits, enhancing quality of life.
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, NC
#37 in Pollution (#267 worldwide)
Raleigh prides itself on excellent air quality, aided by the city’s commitment to environmental health. Pollution levels are significantly low, with efforts to maintain and improve this standard ongoing. Public perception of air quality is notably positive, with few concerns over PM2.5 and PM10 levels, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable living environment.
Boston, MA
Boston, MA
#38 in Pollution (#268 worldwide)
Boston's air quality is notably impressive in 2024, signaling effective environmental policies and awareness. The city has managed moderate pollution levels despite being a populous urban area. Concerns about particulate matter are mitigated by targeted efforts to maintain air quality within safe parameters.
Columbus, OH
Columbus, OH
#39 in Pollution (#270 worldwide)
Columbus is noteworthy for its commendable air quality and low pollution index, showcasing effective environmental strategies. Traffic and industrial outputs are managed well, resulting in healthier air quality for residents. The community's outlook on air quality is quite positive, a testament to the city's ongoing efforts to maintain low levels of harmful particulate matter.
Reno, NV
Reno, NV
#40 in Pollution (#272 worldwide)
Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, MN
#41 in Pollution (#273 worldwide)
Minneapolis has seen improvements in air quality, yet pollution issues persist in densely populated and industrial areas, with traffic being a key contributor. The city's air quality is relatively favorable, with continued concern from residents over the long-term health impact of particulate pollution.
Tucson, AZ
Tucson, AZ
#42 in Pollution (#279 worldwide)
In Tucson, the air quality has shown signs of improvement, continually reaching favorable conditions for the majority of residents. Traffic and other minor emissions contribute to the city's pollution profile. Air quality is largely considered good, with issues relating to particulate matter being minimal, although there is a cautious watch over long-term effects.
Madison, WI
Madison, WI
#43 in Pollution (#280 worldwide)
Madison's residents enjoy excellent air quality, contributing significantly to the city's high livability scores. The environment is characterized by low levels of pollution, even in more urbanized areas. Air quality receives high approval from the public, with Madison successfully keeping particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10 within safe limits, fostering a healthy lifestyle.

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