Air pollution is a problem that is unique to every local area. The quality of air varies based on a number of factors ranging from the level of traffic in an area to its air temperature. As a result, the overall quality of air in a given place is a very dynamic thing. However, there are some cities that consistently have low performance in terms of air quality. Here are four of the cities that have the worst air quality in America today, according to data compiled by the American Lung Association.
 Los Angeles, California
Ranking #1 in ozone, #4 in year-round particulate matter and #7 in short-term particulate matter, Los Angeles has some of the worst air quality in America by several different measures. This is somewhat unsurprising, given that it is the second most populous city in the country, and therefore has high concentrations of cars, people and businesses that produce pollution.
 Fairbanks, Alaska
One doesn’t normally think of Alaska as being particularly polluted, but the city of Fairbanks ranks #1 in year-round particulate matter pollution and #4 in short terms particulate matter. The city does, however, rate very low in the ozone category, which balances out its overall ranking.
 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh has a reputation for low air quality that dates back to its days as a major industrial city. Though the city has improved a great deal since then, it still has some of the highest levels of overall particulate matter pollution in the nation. The greater Pittsburgh area rates #8 in year-round particulate matter and #10 in short-term.
 Bakersfield, California
Situated north of Los Angeles, Bakersfield is likely the city in America with the worst overall air quality. Bakersfield rates #2 in ozone, #3 in year-round particulate matter and #1 in short-term particulate pollution.
 What Should You Do if You Live in One of These Cities?
If you live in one of the cities that have the worst air quality in America, you should be using a home air purifier to protect yourself. A good air purifier can remove particulate matter and VOCs from the air, allowing you to breathe easier. If you have questions about which air purifier is right for you, feel free to contact us, and we’ll help you pick out the right unit for your specific needs.