California Ranks Among Loudest States in New Noise Study

California has been identified as the third-loudest state in the country, according to a new analysis that measured noise levels from transportation sources. The study, which utilized data from the U.S. National Transportation Noise Map, found that residents in the Monterey area regularly experience noise levels of 70.27 decibels.

This level of noise puts the region at risk for hearing loss, as experts suggest that consistent exposure to sounds above 70 decibels can be detrimental. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that outdoor noise above 55 decibels can be considered an annoyance, with an ideal indoor level set at 45 decibels.

In the Los Angeles and Orange Counties area, noise levels registered at 67.27 decibels, approaching the threshold for annoyance. The study highlighted that noise levels near major airports, such as those serving San Diego and the South Bay cities adjacent to LAX, can frequently reach the 90s.

Nevada ranked second overall as the loudest state, with the Las Vegas Valley recording the highest city-area noise level in the state at 60.79 decibels. Other Western states also appeared on the list, with Arizona ranking sixth and Oregon tenth.

Texas was found to be the loudest state in the nation, with its highest recorded noise level reaching 80.65 decibels. The top 10 loudest states also included Illinois (fourth), Florida (fifth), New York (seventh), North Dakota (eighth), and North Carolina (ninth).

Conversely, the eastern part of the country demonstrated quieter conditions, with Connecticut having the lowest maximum reading at 54.85 decibels and Vermont at 55 decibels.

Despite the high noise levels, California also features some of the least-stressed cities in the country. A separate 2024 survey by LawnStarter identified Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and Milpitas as among the top 10 least-stressed cities.