The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) released its annual Allergy Capitals Report, ranking the 100 largest U.S. cities based on the challenges they pose for people with seasonal pollen allergies. For the first time ever, Boise took the top spot as the most challenging city in the country.
How Boise Became the Allergy Capital of the U.S.
The AAFA determines scores by ranking the 100 most populous cities based on their tree, grass, and weed pollen scores. They refer to the number of days each city has high or very high pollen counts, the use of over-the-counter allergy medicine, and the availability of board-certified allergists and immunologists.
In 2025, Bosie ranked 95 out of 100 cities, and in 2026, it was number one. According to the AAFA, several factors drove this dramatic shift:
-
- Tree pollen peaked earlier than usual
- Grass pollen started earlier and lasted longer
- Weed pollen lasted longer and peaked higher
- Fewer allergy specialists were available
In addition, warmer temperatures and drought conditions combined to create a perfect storm for pollen production. These dry conditions kept pollen in the air longer and increased pollen counts for days.
Boise scored “Worse Than Average” in the pollen and available specialists category, and “Better Than Average” in the category of over-the-counter allergy medicine use. The combined score of 100 took the top spot, compared to the average score of 80.63.
Southern Idaho has high concentrations of grass and weed pollen, leading to high pollen counts. That was a big factor in Boise’s ranking, but it doesn’t mean it’s the only region in the state affected.
Eastern Idaho has similar struggles with grass and weeds due to its agricultural areas. Northern Idaho has high levels of tree pollen from cedar and pine trees. And even though the mountainous regions of Idaho have lower levels of pollen, it is still a present allergen.
What is Pollen and What Does it Do?
According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, pollen is a powdery substance that plants, grasses, and weeds produce. It is a fertilizing agent that is transferred between plants, and a common irritant for people with plant allergies.
The immune system mistakes pollen for a danger to the body. In response, it releases antibodies and histamines to remove the pollen. This triggers what we know as an allergic reaction, such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, inflammation, and in severe cases, swelling of the throat.
When there are elevated levels of pollen in the air, your body continually fights back, leading to troublesome allergy responses.
How to Thrive During Allergy Season
There are several actions you can take to help relieve your symptoms, especially during peak times of the year.
Reduce exposure:
-
- Check daily pollen counts before heading outside
- If possible, stay indoors when it’s dry and windy
- Go outside after rain, when pollen is cleared from the air
- Avoid touching your eyes while outdoors (this can transfer pollen that sticks to your fingers)
- Change your clothes when you get home and take a shower
- Keep your windows closed and run an air purifier
Use medications:
-
- Start over-the-counter allergy medications two weeks before allergy season begins for the best results
- Antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops are available at most pharmacies
See a specialist:
-
- Find an allergist near you
- Ask them about prescription-strength medication
- Consider allergy shots
While Idaho does have a shortage of allergists, we still have options. You can search for an allergist near you by entering your zip code here.
You can also check pollen counts on several sites, including the Weather Channel.
Allergy Care with Your Health Idaho
All plans through Your Health Idaho cover pre-existing conditions and include 10 Essential Health Benefits, including prescription drugs, lab tests, and doctor visits. As Idaho’s health insurance marketplace, we have plenty of plans that you can compare, shop, and choose from.
Be sure to review your plan before receiving any treatment so you are aware of possible out-of-pocket costs like co-pays or specialized tests.
Allergy symptoms can be a disruption to your everyday life and make it difficult to enjoy Idaho’s outdoor lifestyle, but with Your Health Idaho, you don’t have to tough it out. Explore ways to help you enjoy your time outdoors even with high pollen counts.