Cleanest Cities in the U.S. Revealed in New Interactive Map

Published On: May 17, 2025

A new nationwide study has crowned the Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro region as the cleanest major metro area in the United States, thanks to its strong environmental policies and urban cleanliness.

The research, conducted by Oxi Fresh, a professional carpet cleaning company, analyzed 35 metropolitan areas using seven major indicators of cleanliness, including air and water quality, pest prevalence, population density, and levels of litter and vandalism. Each city was graded on a scale from A+ to D based on data sourced from federal agencies, including the U.S. Census Bureau.

Portland and its surrounding region stood out with an A+ grade—the highest among all cities ranked—due to long-standing investments in green infrastructure, public sanitation programs, and waste reduction initiatives. According to the study, the area has prioritized recycling, composting, and routine public maintenance, helping to preserve both natural beauty and health standards across the community.

“Portland’s approach to sustainability and public cleanliness is one of the most proactive in the country,” the report stated.

Seattle followed closely behind, receiving an A grade. The city was noted for its high number of parks and green spaces, as well as ongoing efforts to curb litter through government-led initiatives. “Seattle has become synonymous with cleanliness, thanks to its well-funded public works programs and environmental stewardship,” the study said.

Rochester, New York, ranked third with an A- grade, while Detroit, Michigan, came in fourth with a B+. Though Detroit has battled a negative public image, the study credited the city for significant progress, highlighting its clean drinking water and community cleanup projects.

Minneapolis-St. Paul also earned a B+ for its excellent air quality. The city was recognized for launching targeted air quality monitoring in 2021 to reduce pollution in higher-risk areas.

Other cities that made the top 10 include Pittsburgh, Richmond, Denver, Phoenix, and Kansas City. These regions were commended for their combination of infrastructure improvements, public engagement, and environmental programs that support healthier urban living.

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Eric Roy, lead scientist at Culligan, a water treatment company, emphasized that cities scoring highest often benefit from cleaner source water, newer systems, and local governments that exceed federal environmental standards. “Clean cities typically reflect strong public investment and a commitment to infrastructure and health,” Roy said in comments shared with Newsweek.

Overall, the study highlights how cleaner cities often emerge where policy, public investment, and resident participation align. “Communities that prioritize public spaces, cleanliness, and sustainability build environments people are proud to live in,” the report concluded.