Many of us deal with extreme temps—too hot or too cold—at different times of the year. But guess what? There are actually places out there with perfect, moderate temps and loads of sunshine. No crazy winters or heat waves! Check out these top spots for the best weather based on actual stats that consider the risk of extreme weather and natural disasters, as well as a city’s resilience to such events in its Quality of Life score, based on information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Santa Barbara, California
One word: perfect. Santa Barbara’s weather is never too hot or too cold. Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and a protective mountain range, this Southern California gem offers over 280 sunny days a year and stays around 55 to 65 degrees year-round. There’s a bit of “June Gloom” when morning fog rolls in from May to June, but it clears by lunch, leaving you with those beautiful, sun-soaked afternoons.
Surfers suit up in wetsuits during cooler months, while summer and fall invite beachgoers to dive in wearing just their swimsuits. No matter the season, Santa Barbara feels like a slice of paradise you can call home.
Los Angeles, California
Of course, Los Angeles is basically sunshine central, with at least 280 sunny days a year and only 35 rainy ones. Summers are hot and dry, perfect for lounging in beach towns like Malibu and Venice. Winters are easy to tolerate—no freezing temps here! Even on a cooler day, you can walk along Santa Monica Beach or explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame under sunny skies.
If you live here, you’ll notice cooler breezes by the ocean and warmer, sunnier days inland. It’s no wonder the City of Angels is packed with urban parks, wild canyons, and iconic beaches.
Vallejo, California
Sure, Santa Barbara and L.A. have the weather we all want, but have you seen those sky-high home prices? Vallejo offers a way better deal—homes cost half as much as in Santa Barbara, there’s a smaller population than L.A., and plenty of job opportunities to boot.
You still get over 250 sunny days a year and a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Temps hover between 48°F and 70°F, with just 18 inches of rain mostly in winter. Casual layers are all you’ll need year-round!
San Francisco, California
San Francisco has so much to offer, and yes, it can be a little foggy (shoutout to Karl The Fog!). Most of the time, the fog clears by the afternoon, and you’ll enjoy 298 rain-free days a year. Unlike places with extreme heat or snowstorms, SF’s weather stays mild year-round.
You can easily spend your days outdoors hiking the Land’s End Trail or strolling through Golden Gate Park. Just a heads up, though: living here comes with a big price tag, so it’s not all sunshine and roses!
San Diego, California
When people (me included) think of sunny, beautiful cities, San Diego instantly comes to mind. With 250 sunny days and only 40 rainy ones, the weather’s almost always perfect—no need to plan around it!
If you’re tired of dreary winters, San Diego has you covered with beautiful parks, beaches, hiking trails, lakes, and even golf courses. Plus, it’s known for being one of the cleanest and most beautiful cities in the U.S. Who wouldn’t want to live here?
San Jose, California
We call San Jose the capital of Silicon Valley for a reason. The city attracts people looking to launch startups, work in tech, or just enjoy the perfect weather.
San Jose’s Mediterranean climate offers mild winters and warm, sunny summers, with 250 sunny days each year. While the 62 rainy days might lead to yellow lawns, you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, like biking, camping, or checking out local festivals and restaurants.
Salinas, California
Salinas is a small farming hub down south of the Bay Area, boasting a temperate climate. You get 305 rain-free days a year, and temperatures stay between 42°F and 72°F, rarely dipping below 34°F or rising above 84°F.
But it’s not just farms; you can enjoy the beaches, marine reserves, and parks along Monterey Bay. Just a warning: the cost of living is higher, especially for housing. Plus, being near agriculture means occasional pesticide-related air quality issues.
Charleston, South Carolina
Two things to love about Charleston: the Southern charm and the weather. With comfortable temperatures and sunshine for nine months of the year, it’s great for outdoor activities, from hiking to gardening. You’re also always just 20 minutes from the beach, so it feels like a mini vacation every day.
But summers are no joke. July and August bring 95-100°F heat and crazy humidity, making it feel like 110°F. And let’s not forget the bugs, especially mosquitoes and palmetto bugs (don’t Google them unless you’ve eaten!).
Mobile, Alabama
Mobile’s Gulf Coast location means you’re close to beaches, boating, and fishing. You’ll enjoy 220 sunny days, but be ready for rain—it’s one of the rainiest places in the U.S. with 120 rainy days. The weather can change quickly, but you won’t have to worry about harsh winters like in other cities. Just watch out for hurricanes!
On the bright side, living here is affordable, with cheap gas and tons of fresh seafood. So, you get great weather, low costs, and easy access to the coast—what’s not to love?
New Orleans, Louisiana
In New Orleans, you get 212 sunny days a year, and when it rains (114 days), it usually clears up quickly. It’s no surprise so many bands and musicians stop here—there’s always a festival or concert happening! Plus, City Park is full of beautiful lagoons and ancient trees, some over 900 years old.
Summers can be hot and humid, with temps averaging 84°F, but the subtropical climate keeps the city lush all year. While it’s prone to hurricanes, flood protection has improved, so it’s much safer.
Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi is a coastal gem with 215 sunny days a year—perfect for fishing, windsurfing, or just kicking back by the ocean. The city’s beaches are a year-round treat; those high winds are a kitesurfer’s dream.
However, hurricanes are a risk here, bringing potential flooding and power outages. The good news is that winters aren’t very extreme, and snow is a rare occurrence. If you’re ready for ocean living with a little weather unpredictability, Corpus Christi is a spot to consider!
Portland, Maine
You’ll enjoy 201 sunny days and 130 rainy days in Portland, Maine, with easy access to beaches and the historic Old Port. It’s lively and filled with visitors in the summers, but come winter, you can appreciate the peace—just be sure to wear your warmest coat!
With the cost of living only 11% above the national average, it’s more affordable than places like San Francisco (which is 70% above average, by the way!). Plus, Portland is known for its sustainable farming, providing fresh, seasonal vegetables year-round.
Source: U.S. News
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