Seasonal climates play a significant role in determining where people choose to live. Some prefer hot and dry weather, while others enjoy colder and wetter climates. If you are considering a move to a new city, finding a place with the right weather can be a crucial factor in your decision-making process. To help you in your search, we have put together a list of the 10 driest cities in the U.S.
1. Phoenix, Arizona
Known as the “Valley of the Sun,” Phoenix ranks as the driest city in the U.S. With an average annual rainfall of only 8.03 inches, this desert city boasts 299 days of sunshine per year. The warm and dry climate makes it an ideal place for outdoor activities all year round, from hiking and biking to golfing and swimming.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas may be famous for its flashy casinos and bustling nightlife, but it also holds the title of the second driest city in the U.S. With an average rainfall of just 4.2 inches per year, this desert oasis offers plenty of sunshine and mild winters. The dry climate also makes it a popular destination for those seeking relief from allergies and respiratory problems.
3. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Located in the high desert of New Mexico, Albuquerque receives an average of 9.5 inches of rain per year, making it the third driest city in the U.S. The dry climate, coupled with the city’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant culture, makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
4. Salt Lake City, Utah
With an average annual rainfall of 16.3 inches, Salt Lake City ranks as the fourth driest city in the U.S. The city is surrounded by the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountain ranges, providing stunning views and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The dry and mild climate also makes it an ideal place for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.
5. Tucson, Arizona
Another Arizona city on our list, Tucson receives an average of 12.17 inches of rain per year, making it the fifth driest city in the U.S. The city’s dry climate, combined with its stunning desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, makes it a popular retirement destination for many. With over 350 days of sunshine per year, there’s never a shortage of things to do in Tucson.
6. Fresno, California
Located in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley, Fresno ranks as the sixth driest city in the U.S. With an average rainfall of only 11.5 inches per year, this sunny city offers warm and dry summers, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The city is also known for its agriculture, producing a variety of crops, including grapes, almonds, and citrus fruits.
7. El Paso, Texas
El Paso, situated in the Chihuahuan Desert, is the seventh driest city in the U.S. With an average annual rainfall of 9.6 inches, this Texas city offers a warm and dry climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. The city’s dry weather makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as golfing, hiking, and horseback riding.
8. San Diego, California
While California is known for its sunny beaches and warm weather, San Diego is surprisingly the eighth driest city in the U.S. With an average annual rainfall of just 10.3 inches, this coastal city boasts a pleasant Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The dry weather also makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, sailing, and hiking.
9. San Antonio, Texas
Located in the heart of Texas, San Antonio ranks as the ninth driest city in the U.S. With an average rainfall of 29.3 inches per year, the city’s dry climate provides mild winters and hot summers, making it an ideal place for outdoor activities like golfing, cycling, and kayaking. The city is also known for its vibrant culture, world-renowned theme parks, and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine.
10. Riverside, California
Rounding out our list is Riverside, California, with an average annual rainfall of only 11.5 inches, making it the tenth driest city in the U.S. The city enjoys a warm and sunny climate, with