If you think winter is cold where you live, some cities in the United States experience temperatures that drop way below freezing for much of the year. From heavy snowfall to bone-chilling winds, these cities are known for their extreme cold weather. Let’s explore some of the coldest cities in the US and what makes them unique.
Table of Contents
List of Coldest Cities in the US
1. Fairbanks, Alaska
- Average Winter Temperature: -16°F (-27°C)
- Winter Features: Long, dark winters and heavy snow
Fairbanks is often at the top of the list for the coldest cities in the US. Located deep in Alaska, this city experiences brutally cold winters, with temperatures sometimes dipping below -40°F. Fairbanks is also known for its long periods of darkness in the winter, with very few daylight hours. However, it’s a great place to see the Northern Lights.
2. Duluth, Minnesota
- Average Winter Temperature: 7°F (-14°C)
- Winter Features: Strong winds and heavy snowfall
Duluth sits on the shores of Lake Superior, which helps create chilly winds and freezing conditions throughout the winter. It’s one of the coldest cities in the lower 48 states, with temperatures regularly dropping below zero. The combination of icy winds and snow makes Duluth a city that can truly test your winter survival skills.
3. Fargo, North Dakota
- Average Winter Temperature: 12°F (-11°C)
- Winter Features: Dry, frigid air and strong wind chills
Fargo is notorious for its harsh winters, with cold air blowing down from Canada. The flat landscape leaves it exposed to strong winds, which can make already low temperatures feel even colder. Fargo also gets a fair amount of snow, and the chilly weather can last from November through March.
4. Anchorage, Alaska
- Average Winter Temperature: 10°F (-12°C)
- Winter Features: Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures
Anchorage may not be as cold as Fairbanks, but it still experiences very chilly winters. Snowfall is common, and residents see temperatures well below freezing for much of the winter. Despite the cold, Anchorage is a popular destination for outdoor activities like skiing and dog sledding.
5. Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Average Winter Temperature: 15°F (-9°C)
- Winter Features: Bitter cold and frequent snowstorms
Minneapolis, along with its twin city St. Paul, is known for its freezing winters. The city gets lots of snow and experiences long stretches of sub-zero temperatures. Winter activities like ice skating and ice fishing are popular among locals, who’ve learned to embrace the cold weather.
6. Bismarck, North Dakota
- Average Winter Temperature: 14°F (-10°C)
- Winter Features: Long, harsh winters and icy winds
The capital of North Dakota, Bismarck is known for its extreme cold. Like Fargo, it experiences icy winds and dry, freezing conditions. Winter in Bismarck can last for months, with temperatures often remaining below freezing from late fall through early spring.
7. Bozeman, Montana
- Average Winter Temperature: 17°F (-8°C)
- Winter Features: Freezing temperatures and snow-covered mountains
Bozeman is surrounded by mountains, which makes it a beautiful but cold place in the winter. The city experiences significant snowfall and freezing temperatures. However, its location makes it a popular spot for winter sports enthusiasts who enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
8. Marquette, Michigan
- Average Winter Temperature: 18°F (-7°C)
- Winter Features: Lake-effect snow and strong winds
Located on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Marquette is one of the coldest cities in the Midwest. It experiences heavy lake-effect snow, thanks to its position near Lake Superior, and bitter cold temperatures throughout the winter. Despite the cold, Marquette is known for its winter sports scene.
9. Billings, Montana
- Average Winter Temperature: 20°F (-6°C)
- Winter Features: Cold and dry with regular snowfall
Billings has long, cold winters with regular snowfall. The city is known for its cold temperatures and dry air, which can make it feel even colder than it actually is. Winter sports and activities are popular in the area due to the frequent snow.
10. Spokane, Washington
- Average Winter Temperature: 26°F (-3°C)
- Winter Features: Cold temperatures and snow-covered landscapes
While Washington is usually associated with rainy weather, Spokane experiences harsh winters with freezing temperatures and snow. It’s one of the colder cities in the Pacific Northwest, and locals often enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding during the snowy months.
How Do These Cities Handle the Cold?
People living in these chilly cities have learned how to deal with freezing temperatures. Snow removal is a priority, and many homes are built with heating systems to keep the cold at bay. Layers of clothing, insulated boots, and thermal wear are a must for surviving the long winters in these areas.
These coldest cities in the US are known for their long, harsh winters, but the residents have embraced the cold and made the most of the snowy season. If you’re planning to visit or move to one of these cities, be prepared for freezing temperatures and plenty of snow. Despite the cold, these places offer a unique charm and beautiful winter landscapes.
Coldest Cities in the US – FAQs
1. What is the coldest city in the U.S.?
Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the coldest cities, with winter temperatures often dropping to -20°F or lower.
2. Which states have the coldest cities?
The coldest cities are typically found in Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana.
3. Does it snow a lot in the coldest cities?
Yes, many of the coldest cities, especially in Alaska and the northern Midwest, get a lot of snow during the winter.
4. What’s the coldest temperature ever recorded in the U.S.?
The coldest temperature ever recorded in the U.S. was -80°F in Prospect Creek, Alaska, in 1971.
5. Do cold cities have long winters?
Yes, cold cities often experience long winters, with snow and freezing temperatures lasting from late fall to early spring.
6. Are there cold cities outside of Alaska?
Yes, cities like Minneapolis (Minnesota), Fargo (North Dakota), and Helena (Montana) also have very cold winters.
7. Can people still live comfortably in these cold cities?
Yes, people adapt to the cold with proper clothing, heating, and winter activities. Many enjoy winter sports like skiing and ice skating.
8. How do people prepare for winter in the coldest cities?
People prepare by winterizing their homes, getting snow tires for cars, and stocking up on winter gear like jackets, boots, and gloves.
