Sunshine does more than improve your tan. It has an enormous impact on your mood, health, and well-being. Most of the sunniest cities in the U.S. are located in the Southwest, around the Sonoran, Chihuahua, and Great Basin Deserts. These areas grew rapidly in the years after WWII, as people moved away from the snow and rain up north and they remain some of the biggest moving destinations in the country. Based on data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), here are the best cities for year-round warmth and non-stop sunshine.
Situated just north of the Mexican border, Yuma is a small town known for its hot summers, scenic wilderness, and historical attractions. The town experiences roughly 310 days of sun, close to ninety percent of the year. Even though its average rainfall is only three inches, the city is an agricultural hub, due to its warm temperatures and superb irrigation. Known as the “Winter Lettuce Capital of the World,” around ninety percent of the leafy green vegetables grown from November-March come from farms in and around Yuma.
The city is also located next to several important military facilities, such as the Yuma Proving Grounds, which the army uses to test weapons and equipment. However, defense spending is relatively small in comparison to the city’s tourism industry. The desert landscape provides many opportunities for outdoor recreation, especially during winter, when the city’s mild temperatures provide a welcome relief from cold weather up north. Besides hiking in the nearby Gila Mountains or kayaking down the Colorado River, visitors can explore American history at the Territorial Prison State Historic Park and Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area, major landmarks from the pioneer era.
Phoenix receives around 350 hours of sunshine a month and experiences approximately 300 sunny days a year, for an annual sunshine average of 85 percent. It’s also one of America’s hottest cities, with over 110 days of triple digit heat. Nonetheless, it has grown significantly in recent years due to its relatively low cost of living and thriving economy, driven primarily by technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and construction.
At the same time, the city’s expanded rail and freeway system has reduced gridlock, making it more accessible and livable, while the constant sunshine allows residents to take full advantage of outdoor activities in the area (temperatures permitting), including golfing, hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and even hot air balloons. For those seeking a little color, the Desert Botanical Garden showcases the incredible diversity of the area’s desert flora.
Located 100 miles south of Phoenix, Tucson is the second largest city in Arizona and receives around the same amount of sunshine as its sister city up north. Like Phoenix, its housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation costs are below average, especially compared to neighboring California. Due to the thriving job market, the city has attracted a growing number of new residents, as well as major aerospace, technology, and healthcare companies, which have contributed to rising salaries in the area.
Its proximity to Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and Sabino Canyon provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city also has a rich artistic and cultural heritage, with Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences interwoven with elements of the American West.
Located on the U.S.-Mexico border in West Texas, El Paso is one of the sunniest U.S. cities, with an annual sunshine average of 84 percent. Also known as the “Sun City,” it’s a major center for cross-border trade and immigration. Ironically, despite its roots in Texas culture, El Paso is actually closer to other Western cities such as Phoenix and Los Angeles than towns like Dallas or Houston.
Its close proximity to the border has given El Paso a deep connection to Mexican culture, whose influence can be seen throughout the city, in its food, festivals, and public architecture, even its language. Spanish is more common than English in many neighborhoods. This fusion of Mexican, American, and Native influences gives the city a distinct and vibrant atmosphere that sets it apart from its counterparts north and south of the border.
Fresno is one of the largest agricultural hubs in Central California, famous for its almond, grape, and citrus orchards. It receives over 300 days of sunshine a year and is also one of the most affordable cities in the state. Residents can expect to pay 8-9 percent less for basic goods and services, as well as an astounding 40 percent less for housing. As a result, it’s one of the few places in Southern California that’s experienced significant growth over the past few years.
Las Vegas receives more than 290 days of sun a year, making it one of the sunniest places in the United States. Known as “Sin City” due to its wild nightlife, Las Vegas is dominated by the tourism and hospitality industries, which draw in millions of people from all over the world. However, its economy is not wholly dependent on travel. Its technology, healthcare, logistics, and construction sectors have also seen major growth. Though the city is famous for its amazing shows, concerts, and gaming, it’s also a gateway into several outdoor recreation areas, such as Red Rock Canyon and Emerald Cave, a popular kayaking destination a few miles south of Hoover Dam.
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, Reno is famous for its sunny weather (81 percent annual average) and vibrant casinos. Though temperatures are quite high during the summer months, sometimes reaching into the triple digits, the city also receives a fair amount of snow during winter, especially in the surrounding peaks, due to its high elevation.
Besides the incredible gaming, thousands of visitors flock to the area every year to take in the wondrous sights around Lake Tahoe, America’s largest alpine lake. Just thirty minutes outside the city, it provides incredible opportunities for boating, swimming, and kayaking. The area is also a winter sports destination, with some of the most popular ski resorts in the USA.
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