EMF Exposure in New York City, NY

9475
Towers Total
1721
5G Active
31.3/mi²
per sq mi
99
Very High

New York City ranks #1 of 1 New York cities for EMF exposure. Lower score = less exposure.

With an EMF score of 99 out of 100, this major metropolitan area registers among the highest electromagnetic field exposure levels measured, driven by 9,475 total cell towers including 1,721 5G installations across its 302 square miles. The city's tower density of 31.3 per square mile significantly exceeds typical urban areas, though EMF readings vary considerably across different neighborhoods, ranging from 33 to 100 on the measurement scale. As the primary urban center analyzed in New York state, it serves as the baseline for understanding EMF exposure patterns in densely populated metropolitan environments.

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Tower Map

Showing 9475 towers within 5 miles of New York City city center.

Cities with Similar Scores

Other US cities with EMF scores within 10 points of New York City.

Los Angeles, CA
2394 towers
99
Very High
Philadelphia, PA
1578 towers
97
Very High
San Jose, CA
1307 towers
91
Very High
Denver, CO
952 towers
90
Very High
Boston, MA
4654 towers
89
Very High

New York City has extremely high EMF exposure with a score of 99, placing it more than double the national median of 45. As the only tracked city in New York state, it represents the state average, making it difficult to find lower-exposure alternatives within New York's urban areas. For those seeking to minimize EMF exposure, this suggests looking toward smaller communities or rural areas within the state that aren't dominated by the dense cellular infrastructure and electronic activity typical of major metropolitan areas.

EMF Exposure & Health

EMF exposure remains an active area of scientific research. While regulatory bodies maintain that current exposure limits are safe, independent research has raised questions that lead many to take precautionary steps.

What research shows
Sleep Quality: Multiple studies have found measurable effects on sleep quality and brain activity during sleep from RF-EMF exposure, though effect sizes vary across studies.
Children: Some researchers recommend lower exposure limits for children, citing developing nervous systems and longer lifetime exposure as factors warranting extra caution.
Precautionary Principle: Many health-conscious individuals choose to minimize EMF exposure based on the precautionary principle: when science is uncertain but potential consequences are significant, reducing exposure is a reasonable choice.

We provide data, not medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals for personal health decisions.

What You Can Do

Check Your Specific Address

City averages only tell part of the story. Your building's exposure depends on exact tower proximity, building materials, and which direction you face.

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If You're House Hunting

Before buying or renting in New York City, check the EMF score of specific addresses you're considering. Compare neighborhoods to find lower-exposure areas.

  • Search each property address on our map
  • Note which direction bedrooms face relative to towers
  • Consider upper vs lower floors (height affects exposure)

Quick Wins (Free)

Simple changes you can make today to reduce your daily EMF exposure without spending money.

  • Move WiFi router out of bedrooms and living areas
  • Use airplane mode on phone while sleeping
  • Use speakerphone or wired earbuds for calls
  • Turn off WiFi at night (use a timer outlet)
  • Keep phone out of pockets when possible

For New York City specifically:

• Choose neighborhoods in outer boroughs like Staten Island or eastern Queens where tower density is significantly lower than Manhattan's concentrated 5G infrastructure of 1,721 towers. • Install EMF shielding materials like conductive paint or fabric in your home windows facing the direction of nearby cell towers, as NYC's extremely high tower density of 31.3 per square mile makes physical barriers essential.

Bigger Investments

For those wanting more comprehensive protection, especially in high-exposure areas.

  • EMF shielding film for windows facing towers
  • Shielding paint for walls on tower-facing sides
  • Shielded bed canopy for sleeping area
  • Professional EMF assessment of your home
  • Wired ethernet instead of WiFi
EMF scores across New York City range from 33 to 100. The city score of 99 represents the average across sampled locations.

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