When considering travel destinations, the sights, food, and overall excitement often dominate our thoughts, yet the scents of a city can significantly shape our perceptions and experiences.
A recent study by Prilla, an online nicotine retailer, has highlighted how certain cities stand out for their odors, with some emerging as notably fragrant while others are labeled unpleasant.
It’s a common belief that cities like New York would be the smelliest due to its bustling nature, but the study found a surprising contender for that title.
According to the research, Houston, Texas, has taken the crown as the smelliest city in the United States, largely due to its population density, warm climate, and proximity to numerous landfill sites.
The study examined the 74 largest cities in the U.S., focusing on various factors such as:
– The number of landfills and waste transfer stations
– Sewage complaints recorded by the city
– The presence of industrial facilities
– Data on air quality
– Statistics on pet ownership
– Google searches for odor-related terms
Houston’s combination of a growing population, summer heat, and heavy traffic contributed to its unpleasant score.
In fact, 37% of residents reported traffic congestion as a major issue, which worsens air quality and contributes to pungent odors in the vicinity.
While Houston topped the list, it was not the only city facing olfactory issues. The study also identified the following as part of the top ten smelliest cities in the U.S.:
1. Houston, Texas
2. Los Angeles, California
3. New York City, New York
4. Orlando, Florida
5. Riverside, California
6. Anaheim, California
7. Long Beach, California
8. Phoenix, Arizona
9. Portland, Oregon
10. Chicago, Illinois
Surprisingly, coastal cities such as Long Beach, which might invoke thoughts of fresh sea air, also ranked among the smelliest due to high levels of traffic and industrial activity.
The presence of sewage treatment and industrial waste can lead to less-than-fresh fragrances, especially when combined with favorable coastal breezes.
Notably, both Anaheim and Orlando, famous for their Disney parks, made the list. The influx of tourists and the associated industrial operations seem to negatively impact the air quality in these areas.
On the other end of the spectrum, the research also identified which cities boasted the freshest air in the country.
If you’re looking to enjoy some clean and crisp air during your travels, these cities should make it to your travel itinerary:
1. Reno, Nevada
2. Honolulu, Hawaii
3. Anchorage, Alaska
4. Oakland, California
5. El Paso, Texas
6. Virginia Beach, Virginia
7. Jersey City, New Jersey
8. Henderson, Nevada
9. Stockton, California
10. Lincoln, Nebraska
The diversity of these cities indicates that fresh air can be found in unexpected places.
For example, Reno’s reputation as the
image source from：thetravel
