Measured locations in New York City with noise levels greater than 70dB increased risk of hearing loss. Traffic noise caused 53% of sleep disturbances. More than two million people in New York City reported that they were disturbed from sleep by noise once a week 78% of those people reported being disturbed three or more nights each week, according to a paper on the effects of ambient noise on sleep. Sound pressure levels were reported at 70 to 85 dB in midtown Manhattan, which is above average and is at a level that poses health hazards, according to an assessment of noise pollution in NYC. Noise has been consistently reported as the number-one quality-of-life issue affecting residents in New York City.
