Los Angeles may be famous for its film industry and star-studded skyline, but a new nationwide report suggests there’s another phenomenon lighting up the city.
According to new data compiled using reports from the National UFO Reporting Center, Los Angeles ranks No. 5 among the top U.S. cities for UFO sightings, with 211 reported encounters since 2015.
And this isn’t just science fiction hype. The findings point to a broader national trend, with sightings steadily reported across major metropolitan areas.
Unlike traditional “UFO corridor” regions in the Southwest, L.A.’s ranking highlights how sightings are no longer limited to remote desert areas. Instead, densely populated urban centers are becoming key locations for reports of unexplained aerial activity.
Interestingly, November is considered the most active month for sightings in Los Angeles, making late fall the ideal time for curious sky watchers.
Phoenix, Arizona
New York, New York
Las Vegas, Nevada
Portland, Oregon
Los Angeles, California
🔬 How The Data Was Collected
The rankings are based on data from the National UFO Reporting Center, analyzing reported sightings across the United States from 2015 through February 17, 2026.
Researchers evaluated the number of sightings by city, state, and date to determine where and when people are most likely to encounter unexplained aerial phenomena.
By aggregating over a decade of reports, the study identifies patterns in peak months, geographic hotspots, and reporting frequency. It creates a comprehensive snapshot of UFO activity across the country.
🌌 A Nationwide Curiosity About The Unknown
The fascination with UFOs isn’t slowing down. In fact, it’s growing. Studies show that a majority of Americans believe intelligent life exists beyond Earth, fueling continued interest in sightings and unexplained phenomena.
According to the Pew Research Center, 65% of Americans believe that intelligent life exists on other planets.
Cities like Seattle (ranked No. 9 with 147 sightings) are also gaining attention as emerging hotspots, especially during summer months when clearer skies improve visibility.
So next time you’re in Los Angeles, don’t just look at the stars on the Walk of Fame – look up! You might just catch something that’s out of this world.