Florida Cities Among Nation’s Allergy Capitals in 2026

TAMPA, Fla. – Three Florida cities have been identified as allergy hotspots in the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s (AAFA) 2026 Allergy Capitals report. Lakeland ranks 20th nationally, with Sarasota at #28 and Tampa following closely at #29.

How Cities Were Ranked

The AAFA rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of three key factors:

1. Tree, grass, and weed pollen scores
2. Amount of over-the-counter allergy medicine sold
3. Availability of allergy specialists

According to AAFA research director Hannah Jaffee, none of the local cities scored above average in these categories, suggesting residents may be heavily impacted by seasonal allergies due to warmer, more humid climates.¹

Local Allergy Trends

Doctors at USF Health have observed an increase in allergy patients, consistent with the typical peak season from February to April.¹ Symptoms have been particularly noticeable in the last three to four weeks with warmer weather.¹

Oak, cedar, and cypress trees are primary contributors to pollen levels.¹ Dr. Richard Lockey, distinguished professor of allergy and immunology at USF Health, explains that these trees release “trillions of pollen particles into the air, which we inhale, arrive into our eyes and nose and into our lungs.”¹

Adult-Onset Allergies

Interestingly, up to 15-20% of people may develop allergic diseases after the age of 30.¹ This percentage may be even higher in Florida due to the state’s intense allergy season.¹ Family history and genetics also play a significant role, with a 30% chance of developing allergies if one parent has them, and a 60% chance if both parents do.¹

Dr. Farnaz Tabatabaian, associate professor of allergy and immunology at USF Health, suggests that the demands of adulthood can make allergy symptoms more noticeable.¹

Source: Information for this report was provided by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, and interviews with doctors from USF Health.¹