A recent study by LawnStarter, a national lawn care company, has ranked Southern California cities as some of the dirtiest in the United States. San Bernardino topped the list as the dirtiest city in both California and the nation for the second consecutive year. The study evaluated over 300 major U.S. cities based on cleanliness, pollution, living conditions, waste infrastructure, and resident dissatisfaction.
San Bernardino was noted for having the highest pollution levels and the most dissatisfied residents. Los Angeles followed closely in second place, with issues such as near-roadway pollution and overcrowded housing contributing to its ranking. Ontario and Corona also made the top ten, ranking fifth and tenth, respectively.
The study used various metrics, including the number of public restrooms, junkyards, population density, and average air quality. Ten California cities were tied for the worst air quality, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 97. Despite California’s efforts in sustainable development, such as green lawn care and composting, the state has struggled with maintaining cleanliness in its urban areas.
KTLA reported that California’s recent reversal of its “clean fleets” mandate for electric trucks might have contributed to these issues. Meanwhile, Ventura County Star highlighted that cities like Pleasanton ranked low on the dirtiest cities list, showing a stark contrast within the state.
The study also identified Newport Beach, Simi Valley, and Corona as having high landfill waste per capita. As Southern California cities continue to grapple with pollution and waste management, the findings emphasize the need for improved environmental policies and infrastructure.
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