Skip to Content

America’s Most Polluted Cities

America’s Most Polluted Cities

These cities are struggling with significant pollution issues. If you’re environmentally conscious, you might want to think twice before visiting.

1. Bakersfield, California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma

Known for its poor air quality, Bakersfield frequently tops the list of most polluted cities in America.

2. Fresno, California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma

Another California city plagued by smog and poor air quality, Fresno’s pollution levels are concerning.

3. Los Angeles, California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Famous for its smog, LA has long struggled with air pollution. It’s a city of contrasts with beautiful beaches and dirty air.

4. Modesto, California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jacob Boomsma

Modesto’s air quality issues stem from both vehicle emissions and agricultural practices.

5. Fairbanks, Alaska

Northern lights ,Aurora borealis,

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pung

Surprisingly, Fairbanks suffers from severe winter pollution due to wood-burning stoves and temperature inversions.

6. Phoenix, Arizona

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Phoenix’s air quality suffers from high levels of particulate matter and ozone.

7. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Image Credit: Pexels / LaMont L. Johnson

Pittsburgh’s industrial past contributes to its ongoing air quality problems.

8. Houston, Texas

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Known for its refineries and petrochemical plants, Houston’s air quality is a major concern.

9. Salt Lake City, Utah

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Winter inversions trap pollutants in the valley, leading to poor air quality in Salt Lake City.

10. Cleveland, Ohio

Image Credit: Shutterstock / f11photo

Cleveland’s industrial activities contribute to its significant pollution problems.

More From The Green Voyage

Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024

6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go

Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays

Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Pixabay.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip

Related posts:

Why Is France the Most Visited Country in the World?
Food Hygiene Horrors: 20 Gross-Out Moments for World Travelers
Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the USA
The 17 Hardest Languages to Learn in the World
20 Smart Travel Hacks: Americans Saving Big on International Adventures
20 Most Amazing Palaces in the World
The Caribbean - Not the Paradise You Think
18 States With Longest Life Expectancy
20 Must-Know Things Americans Should Know about Traveling to Europe
21 Weird Things You Need to Know About Arizona
21 Most Affordable European Destinations in 2025
20 Ultimate Tips for Epic Friend Adventures: Traveling Together & Making Memories
21 Ways Washington DC Thinks It's Better Than the Rest
10 US Cities with Cool New Attractions for 2024
Women on Top: Destinations Where Women Rule vs. Struggle
18 Travel Hotspots Being Ruined by Commercialization
18 Countries Families Are Fleeing to With Kids to Escape Gun Violence
Top 14 Poorest States in America and What Travelers Should Know
21 Smart Strategies for Traveling with Kids Who Have ADHD
25 American Experiences to Cross off Your Bucket List *Even if You’re American!
20 Ways to Deepen Bonds on the Go: Strengthening Relationships for American Travelers
21 Wallet-Friendly US Hideouts
The 14 Deadliest Spiders on the Planet
18 Incredible Places to Visit Before They Vanish
18 Overrated Wonders of the World
20 Enlightened Journeys: Mastering Mindful Travel
Japan Reclaims WWII Artifacts Discovered in a Massachusetts Attic – A Must-Know for American Travele...
19 US Resorts That Feel Like International Getaways—No Travel Insurance Required!
Navigating the Globe with a Queer Compass: 18 LGBTQ+ Travel Habits
Overcome U.S. Savings Challenges and Fund Your Future Vacations