1. Asheville, North Carolina
Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville enjoys all four seasons without the extremes, according to Explore Asheville. Summers are warm but rarely unbearable, with average highs in the low 80s, while winters are mild, rarely dipping below freezing. The mountain air keeps humidity lower than other parts of the South, making it comfortable even on warmer days. Plus, the fall foliage and spring blooms make every season feel like a postcard.
Despite being in the Southeast, Asheville sees occasional light snow in winter but avoids the brutal ice storms that hit other parts of North Carolina. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year, preventing long droughts or monsoon-like downpours. Thanks to its elevation, the city enjoys crisp, fresh air that rarely feels muggy. If you love a little variety without extreme weather swings, Asheville is a hidden gem.
2. Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara has the kind of weather most people dream about—warm, sunny, and incredibly consistent, according to Visit Santa Barbara. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains, temperatures stay in the 60s and 70s year-round with almost no humidity. It also avoids the blistering summer heat that inland California cities experience, making it perfect for outdoor lovers. Even in winter, a light jacket is usually all you need to stay comfortable.
The city sees around 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest places in the country. Rain is rare but usually comes in gentle showers rather than torrential storms. The ocean breeze keeps the air fresh and cool, even on the warmest days. If you want a place where you can comfortably enjoy the outdoors every single day, Santa Barbara delivers.
3. Bend, Oregon
Bend might not be the first place that comes to mind for perfect weather, but it has an amazing climate if you love sunshine. It gets over 300 days of sun each year, according to AllTrips, but because it’s in the high desert, the air stays crisp and dry. Summers are warm but rarely hot, with highs in the 80s, and evenings cool off beautifully. Winters bring snow, but they’re not brutal—just enough for a picturesque landscape without the misery of Midwest-style blizzards.
Unlike Portland, Bend doesn’t get nearly as much rain, so gray, dreary days are rare. The low humidity makes both summer and winter more comfortable compared to other parts of Oregon. Spring and fall are absolutely stunning, with vibrant wildflowers and golden autumn leaves. If you love outdoor adventure without extreme weather swings, Bend is a dream spot.
4. San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo, or SLO as locals call it, has been dubbed the “Happiest City in America,” The Guardian reports, and its weather might be a big reason why. Nestled between rolling hills and the Pacific Ocean, it enjoys mild temperatures year-round, rarely dropping below 40°F in winter or above 80°F in summer. The coastal breeze keeps the air fresh, while low humidity makes it even more pleasant. It’s the kind of place where you can hike, bike, or surf any day of the year.
Rain is limited to a short winter season, but even then, storms are mild compared to other parts of California. Unlike Los Angeles, SLO doesn’t suffer from smog or extreme heat waves. Spring and fall feel like an extension of summer, making it a paradise for those who love consistent, comfortable weather. If you’re looking for an underrated California city with dreamy weather, SLO is a top contender.
5. Flagstaff, Arizona
Arizona is famous for its scorching heat, but Flagstaff is the exception, Discover Flagstaff reports. Sitting at 7,000 feet above sea level, this mountain city enjoys four seasons with none of the desert extremes. Summers are comfortably warm, with highs in the 70s and 80s, while nights cool down significantly. Winters bring snow, but the dry air keeps it from feeling bitterly cold like in the Midwest.
Unlike Phoenix, Flagstaff doesn’t deal with relentless heat waves or unbearable humidity. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful, with wildflowers and golden aspens painting the landscape. The high elevation means the air is crisp and clean, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. If you want Arizona’s natural beauty without the heat, Flagstaff is the perfect escape.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston might not seem like a mild-weather city, but it has an undeniable charm when it comes to climate. Winters are short and mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, making it perfect for those who hate the cold. Summers can be humid, but the coastal breeze keeps things more bearable than inland Southern cities. Spring and fall are especially pleasant, with warm, sunny days and cool evenings.
One of Charleston’s biggest perks is its extended outdoor season, allowing for beach trips well into the fall. Rain showers come and go quickly, rarely lasting long enough to ruin a day. While hurricanes are a potential concern, the city’s historic charm and generally comfortable weather make it worth it. If you want Southern charm with a climate that lets you enjoy it, Charleston is a solid pick.
7. Boise, Idaho
Boise might not be on most people’s radar for great weather, but it has an incredible climate if you like sunshine and variety. It gets over 200 sunny days per year, but without the oppressive heat of the Southwest. Summers are warm but dry, with highs in the 80s and low 90s, and evenings that cool off comfortably. Winters bring snow, but they’re milder than what you’d find in the Midwest or Northeast.
Humidity is low year-round, making even hotter days feel more bearable. Boise’s location in a valley protects it from extreme weather events like tornadoes or hurricanes. Spring and fall are spectacular, with colorful leaves and perfect hiking weather. If you want a place with all four seasons but none of the extremes, Boise is a great option.
8. Galveston, Texas
Texas isn’t exactly known for mild weather, but Galveston has a coastal climate that makes it more bearable. Winters are incredibly mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below 50°F, while summers are warm but tempered by Gulf breezes. The humidity can be high, but the steady wind off the water helps keep things comfortable. Plus, with more than 200 sunny days a year, there’s plenty of beach weather.
Rain comes in quick bursts rather than prolonged storms, so it rarely disrupts outdoor plans. While hurricanes are a concern, the city’s coastal beauty and pleasant winter temperatures make it a favorite for people escaping colder states. Spring and fall are particularly stunning, with warm days and cool nights. If you want beach vibes without Florida crowds, Galveston is worth considering.
9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a Southern gem with a climate that’s surprisingly mild for much of the year. Winters are short and pleasant, with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F, making it a great escape for those who hate the cold. Summers can be warm and humid, but the nearby Atlantic Ocean provides a cooling breeze. Spring and fall are absolutely gorgeous, with mild temperatures, blooming azaleas, and colorful foliage.
Rain showers are frequent but usually pass quickly, leaving behind clear, sunny skies. Unlike many inland Southern cities, Savannah avoids the extreme heat waves that can make summer unbearable. The city’s abundance of massive oak trees and shady squares also help keep temperatures comfortable. If you love a charming, historic city with a climate that lets you enjoy it year-round, Savannah is an excellent choice.
10. Monterey, California
Monterey’s weather is about as close to perfect as it gets, thanks to its location along the central California coast. Temperatures hover in the 50s and 60s year-round, creating a cool and comfortable atmosphere that never gets too hot or too cold. The marine layer brings a bit of morning fog, but it usually burns off by midday, leaving behind crisp, sunny afternoons. Unlike much of California, Monterey avoids both extreme heat waves and heavy rainstorms.
Humidity is low, and the ocean breeze keeps the air fresh, making it an ideal place for people who dislike muggy weather. Even in summer, you won’t find the scorching heat that plagues places like Los Angeles or the Central Valley. Winters are mild enough that a light jacket is usually sufficient, and rain showers are gentle rather than overwhelming. If you love the idea of cool, refreshing air and coastal beauty all year long, Monterey is a dream spot.
11. Redding, California
Redding might not be the first place that comes to mind for great weather, but it has some serious perks if you love sunshine. It boasts over 300 sunny days a year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the U.S. While summers can get hot, the nearby lakes, rivers, and mountains provide plenty of ways to cool off. Plus, the dry heat is much more bearable than the humid summers found in the South or Midwest.
Winters in Redding are incredibly mild, with daytime highs often reaching the 50s and 60s, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. Unlike the rainy Pacific Northwest, Redding’s dry climate means fewer gloomy days and more bright, clear skies. Spring and fall offer perfect temperatures, with cool mornings and warm afternoons. If you’re someone who thrives in sunny, dry conditions, Redding is a great place to be.
12. St. George, Utah
St. George is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to amazing weather in the U.S. Located in the southwestern corner of Utah, it enjoys mild winters with daytime temperatures often in the 50s and 60s. Summers can be hot, but the dry air makes the heat more tolerable than in places with high humidity. Plus, nearby Zion National Park and other scenic spots provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in every season.
Unlike much of the rest of Utah, St. George rarely sees snow, making it a great option for people who want to avoid harsh winters. Spring and fall are especially beautiful, with warm days and cool nights that are perfect for hiking and exploring. The city gets over 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest places in the country. If you love sunshine and a desert climate that’s not too extreme, St. George is a fantastic option.
