Some states feel like summer never ends. Others enjoy four distinct seasons but skip the extreme cold. If you’re wondering which are the states with the best weather, you’ve come to the right place.
We looked at average temperature, sunshine, rainfall and comfort across the seasons. These states offer pleasant weather year-round for almost every climate preference.
1. California
From San Diego to Santa Barbara and up to San Francisco, California delivers a buffet of excellent weather. The south and central California coast features a mild Mediterranean climate, meaning warm temperatures, mild winters and dry weather with abundant sunshine.
Places like Santa Maria and Long Beach enjoy consistent temperatures and low humidity. Inland, the desert climate in spots like Palm Springs brings hot weather with virtually no rainfall.
California’s coastal cities in particular have remarkably mild climates year-round, with no month’s average high temperature falling below the mid-60s F (high teens in Celsius).
2. Hawaii
Hawaii’s tropical climate makes it a haven for sun lovers. Key West may try to snatch the title, but Honolulu delivers year-round weather with average highs in the mid-80s F (upper 20s C) and warm winters.
Trade winds keep the high humidity from getting unbearable. With clear skies and minimal seasonal variation, Hawaii is a vacation spot where the weather is as reliable as the view.
3. Arizona
Arizona’s desert climate offers beautiful weather for those who love dry heat. Cities like Phoenix and Tucson have hot summers but see pleasant temperatures during the fall months and winter.
With low humidity and lots of sunny days, Arizona is a great place for outdoor activities — as long as you can handle the extremely hot summer months.
Higher-altitude areas like Flagstaff offer slightly cooler winters and a break from the extreme weather.
4. South Carolina
South Carolina features a warm climate with mild winters and long stretches of sunny weather. Coastal cities like Charleston experience warm summers with moderate rainfall and slightly cooler winters.
The state has distinct seasons without the harshness of cold winters found up north. This balance makes it a favorite for those who want year-round pleasant temperatures and the ability to enjoy daily life outdoors.
5. Florida
Florida ranks high for those who want warm weather throughout the year. With a tropical to subtropical climate, cities like Miami and Tampa offer average temperatures that rarely dip below 60 F (15 C).
While it does face high humidity and the most rainfall during hurricane season, the state still provides abundant sunshine and plenty of daylight hours. Florida is ideal for sun-seekers who don’t mind some summer extremes.
6. Texas
Texas covers a wide range of weather patterns, but central and southern areas boast great weather. Cities like Austin and San Antonio enjoy warm summers, mild winters and moderate rainfall.
The dry climate in West Texas brings lots of sunny days, and the state’s size allows for diverse options based on personal climate preferences.
7. Nevada
Nevada features a desert climate with dry weather and clear skies most of the year. Las Vegas enjoys mild winters and extremely hot summers with average highs well over 100 F (37 C).
But with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine, it’s perfect for those who prefer a dry, hot environment with comfortable winters.
8. New Mexico
New Mexico offers beautiful weather with low humidity and high desert conditions. Cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe experience all four seasons with generally mild winters and warm summers.
The high altitude keeps temperatures more moderate than in lower desert states. Expect clear skies, cool nights and comfortable temperatures year-round.
9. Georgia
Georgia combines a warm climate with pleasant temperatures for most of the year. Cities like Savannah and Atlanta experience warm summers and mild winters.
Although the state sees moderate rainfall, it also enjoys long growing seasons, making it ideal for those who appreciate a balance of sunny weather and distinct seasons.
10. Oregon (Southern Region)
Southern Oregon surprises many with its excellent weather. Cities like Medford have dry summers, mild winters and a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. With moderate rainfall and cooler temperatures than California, it offers pleasant weather without the crowds.
This region enjoys consistent temperatures and abundant sunshine for much of the year, though the northern part of the state does get its fair share of cold weather with literally freezing winter temperatures.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
