America has many amazing states that stand out for their unique culture, historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and bustling city charm. While there are places that are clean and refreshing, several places stand out for their cleanliness issues. New York City, renowned for its vibrant city life and fashion, is infamous for its uncleanliness.
From piles of garbage on the sidewalks to scurrying rats in the subway stations. However, this destination is not the dirtiest city in America. A survey in 2024 revealed the country’s filthiest city, ranking New York City at No. 12. In this article, we will delve into the dirtiest cities and the cleanest cities in America.
Houston Takes the Crown
Taking the top spot as the dirtiest city in the United States is Houston, Texas. This city surpassed all the other cities when LawnStarter analysed them based on factors like air pollution, waste management, and pest infestations. While Houston boasts gleaming skyscrapers and a bustling economy, it also has high industrial emissions, poor air quality, and a major cockroach problem.
The city’s massive oil and gas industry contributes to its pollution issue. Houston is also one of the least breathable cities, ranking third in overall pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. With regards to the pests, this city has the highest number of homes infested with cockroaches in the United States.
Newark: Holding Steady at Number Two
America’s second dirtiest city is Newark in New Jersey. This city struggles with decaying infrastructure and pollution, making it follow closely behind Houston. Factors contributing to its filth are industrial waste, traffic congestion, and poor air quality. The city has attempted to clean things up, but these factors continue to be a significant problem.
California’s Contaminated Air
While California offers picturesque coastlines and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, it is home to some of the dirtiest cities in America. The state’s inland cities dominated the chart, with cities like San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ontario ranking among the worst places for air quality. After changing from agricultural areas to warehouse hubs, the pollution levels soared due to diesel truck emissions and industrial activity.
Rodent Problems in the Northeast
Boston, Philadelphia, and Baltimore were also ranked on the list of the dirtiest cities in America due to a significant rodent problem. Those who are terrified of rodents should probably avoid relocating to these areas. These cities in the Northeast have the highest reports of rodent infestation in the country. Those planning long visits to these areas in winter may encounter rats and mice as the cold winters drive rodents indoors. Rodents in these cities are mostly found in ageing buildings and densely populated areas. There have been efforts to control the issue of rodents, but these cities struggle with sanitation issues and urban congestion, making them areas where rodents can thrive.
Las Vegas and the Battle for Clean Water
Las Vegas is a thrilling city of bright lights and luxury, but it is also a city with poor water quality. The city stands, rn out on the list for the challenges it faces with water contamination. The study has revealed that this city was ranked the highest for the most unsafe water in the southwestern United States. Its contaminated water frequently violates the Safe Drinking Water Act. Factors contributing to Las Vegas having the most unsafe water to drink are its arid climate, industrial activity, and heavy tourism.
The Cleanest Cities in America
Meanwhile, other cities stand out for their cleanliness, making them some of the best cities to visit. Virginia Beach, Virginia, has been ranked the cleanest city in America. The city has robust environmental policies that contribute to its cleanliness and has relatively low industrial pollution. The city is also clean because of its well-maintained public spaces. Following closely behind Virginia Beach are Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and Fremont, California.
