The Snowiest U.S. Cities
Prepare for future snow days if you live in one of the snowiest cities in the U.S.
The United States is home to nearly every climate imaginable, from arid deserts to the snowiest cities in the U.S., where record snowfalls rival our neighbors to the north. Although some people love to wake up in a winter wonderland, others prefer to avoid the cold winds and piles of snow altogether. That’s why it’s helpful to know which states receive the most snowfall and which are relatively snow-free.
Whether you’re a snow bunny or a warm-weather lover who stays away from wintry climates, here’s the low-down on the snowiest (and least snowy) cities in the United States.
The Snowiest Cities in the U.S.
While much of the U.S. experiences moderate amounts of snow throughout the winter season, certain parts rack up extreme measurements. These are the top 10 U.S. cities for snowfall in recent years.
1. Sault Ste. Marie, MI
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 90.0 inches
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, is the second-most populated city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, an area known for its extremely snowy winters. The city resides on the banks of the St. Marys River, a natural divider between Michigan and Ontario, Canada. 2016 was this record-setting city’s snowiest year in the past five years, with a staggering 116.2 inches of snow.
2. Caribou, ME
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 82.14 inches
Given that the city shares its name with the animal fabled for guiding Santa’s sleigh, it’s only fitting that Caribou, Maine, is high on the list of the snowiest cities in the United States. Caribou is known for its outdoor winter sports, with plenty of spots for skiing, skating, and hiking alongside Maine’s stunning forests and natural scenery. Snowmobile enthusiasts can enjoy over 1,600 miles of well-kept snowmobile trails that allow international travel to Canada even in the snowiest conditions.
3. Erie, PA
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 80.86 inches
Located on the shores of its namesake Great Lake, Erie, Pennsylvania, offers an endless variety of activities for snow lovers. The city is home to the picturesque Presque Isle State Park, a popular destination for ice fishing during the winter months. The city also has tons of winter attractions to keep you cozy from the cold, including a charming historic downtown area, art galleries, and music venues to catch the latest performances from local talent.
4. Syracuse, NY
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 77.56 inches
Syracuse, New York, is located in the central part of the state, about four hours from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Known as the “City of Snow,” Syracuse is famed for its extensive snowfall and cold weather during the winter months. Still, that doesn’t stop residents and tourists from enjoying scenic mountains, lakes, and a lively downtown area any time of the year.
5. Buffalo, NY
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 68.8 inches
Buffalo, New York, is no stranger to record-breaking snowfall, so it’s not surprising to find it on the list of the snowiest cities in the United States. Located in upstate New York, the bustling city is known for its picturesque natural scenery, vibrant culture, and rich history. It is home to a number of famous attractions, with Niagara Falls just 16 miles away.
6. Binghamton, NY
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 61.9 inches
Another city hailing from the snowy state of New York, Binghamton is a less-populated area in the state’s southern tier. This city earned its spot in the top 10 snowiest cities in the U.S. thanks to the 94.3 inches of powder it received in 2020, which is more than 3 feet more than the previous year. Fun fact: Binghamton features six antique wooden carousels from the ‘20s that earned the city’s title as the Carousel Capital of the World.
7. Flagstaff, AZ
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 57.72 inches
It might be surprising to see Arizona on the list of the snowiest cities in the U.S., but given that Flagstaff lies 7,000 feet above sea level, the snowshoe fits. Dubbed Arizona’s “Winter Wonderland,” Flagstaff offers an abundance of winter activities such as sledding, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, and more. The city is a snow lover’s paradise, thanks to its access to mountainous sports and luxurious resorts.
8. Burlington, VT
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 55.88 inches
Vermont experiences some frigid, snowy winters, but that doesn’t stop residents and tourists from enjoying all Burlington has to offer. The city is big on skiing, so it’s the perfect spot to hit the slopes during peak snowfall months. For a more low-key stay, visit Burlington to enjoy winter festivals, museums, restaurants, bars, and plenty of spots to sample the state’s famous maple syrup.
9. Muskegon, MI
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 52.82 inches
Located along the western shore of Michigan, Muskegon is best known for its beaches, fishing, and sailing during the summer months. Once winter rolls around, the area sees a ton of snowfall, with many residents opting to spend time in the city’s museums, restaurants, bars, and downtown area. Still, there’s no shortage of winter activities, especially in Muskegon State Park’s Winter Sports Complex, which offers ice fishing, skiing, ice skating, and a luge track.
10. Grand Rapids, MI
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 52.32 inches
Michigan’s second-most populated city after Detroit, Grand Rapids, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest. During Michigan’s notoriously cold and snowy winters, downtown Grand Rapids celebrates its months-long World of Winter festival that features ice sculptures, art installations, and an ice park with frozen shuffleboard, foosball, chess, and more. Winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing are aplenty, as are shopping and dining destinations for those looking to stay indoors.
Least Snowy Cities in the U.S.
Not one for making snow angels? Here are the top 10 least snowy U.S. cities.
1. Nashville, TN
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 0.98 inches
The city of Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its abundance of live music but it also features the smallest amount of annual snowfall in the U.S. Visitors and residents alike can expect very little snowfall during the winter, and instead enjoy the city’s many options for entertainment, dining, cultural attractions, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Charlotte, NC
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 1.72 inches
Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. With less than two inches of snowfall per year, residents and visitors can enjoy some winter sparkle without the need for a shovel. Year-round attractions include the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Charlotte Ballet, and the Carowinds Amusement Park.
3. Fort Smith, AR
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 2 inches
Located on the banks of the Arkansas River in northwest Arkansas, Fort Smith is a city that’s rich in history. Fort Smith was originally established as a western frontier military post in 1817, and the city grew to become the third-largest city in Arkansas. Today, though it doesn’t see much snow or outdoor winter festivities, it still offers plenty of shopping and dining hot spots, as well as theaters and event venues.
4. Knoxville, TN
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 2.72 inches
Knoxville was the original capital of Tennessee and is now the state’s third-largest city, following Nashville and Memphis. It is also one of the largest cities in the Appalachian region and a major hub of Appalachian culture. While it may not get much snow, residents and visitors can marvel at the occasional flurries while visiting the Knoxville Museum of Art, as well as a downtown area with an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Gothic and Victorian to Art Deco and Modern.
5. Memphis, TN
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 3.12 inches
Those looking to go walking in Memphis can do so without snow boots on most days. Where it lacks major snowfall, the city offers year-round musical and cultural events, such as its Jazz Festival on the weekend before Thanksgiving. Memphis visitors can enjoy year-round attractions, such as the Blues Hall of Fame, the Memphis Pyramid, and Elvis’ Graceland mansion.
6. Raleigh, NC
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.16 inches
A vibrant city on the East Coast, North Carolina’s capital city Raleigh sees just over four inches of snowfall per year. The “City of Oaks” can get pretty chilly and icy during the winter, but there are still plenty of bars, restaurants, and arcades to pass the time when the nights get nippy. A number of museums and performing arts centers make this a culture-rich destination for residents and travelers alike.
7. Tulsa, OK
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.36 inches
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is Oklahoma’s second-largest city that gets less than five inches of snowfall per year. The city is famous for its art deco architecture, which looks all the more magical beneath a sparkling dusting of snow. While there isn’t enough snow for winter sports, visitors can still enjoy attractions such as the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Gilcrease Museum, or the Tulsa Zoo.
8. Little Rock, AR
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.44 inches
Little Rock is Arkansas’ capital city that sits on the banks of the Arkansas River. There may not be opportunities to go sledding, but Little Rock’s cultural calendar is dotted with cultural events to keep residents and visitors busy during colder months. The city also has plenty of museums, state parks, and natural beauty to take in any time of the year.
9. Medford, OR
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.68 inches
Despite being pretty far north, Oregon doesn’t tend to see much snow, and the city of Medford is no exception. Medford also doesn’t get much of the major rainfall characteristic of the Pacific Northwest, as it sits in a rain shadow between the Cascade Range and Siskiyou Mountains (referred to as the Rogue Valley). Still, whatever the weather, residents and visitors can take in natural beauties such as Alba Park and Bear Creek Park or sample the city’s famous pears and wine.
10. Albuquerque, NM
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.9 inches
Albuquerque is New Mexico’s biggest city, located in the high desert. It only sees around five inches of snow each year, but the city is still full of events and sights year-round. Visitors can take in New Mexico’s art and culture while visiting its many destinations for performances and unique cuisine.
U.S. Cities Getting More Snow Than Ever
Climates are constantly in flux, and certain U.S. cities are experiencing more snow than ever. Here are the top cities that are up-and-coming in the snowfall category.
1. Pendleton, OR
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 13 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 25.54 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 96.46%
Once the fourth-largest city in Oregon, Pendelton has since blossomed into a quaint town known for its cultural and art festivals. The city is built on both sides of the peaceful Umatilla River, which contributes to the town’s very unique climate. While the city has seen the sharpest rise in snowfall in the country, the city is also home to Oregon’s hottest recorded temperature of 119 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Billings, MT
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 22.8 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 42.24 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 85.26%
Nicknamed “The Magic City.” Billings is the largest city in Montana. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Yellowstone Valley, the city is home to some of the most incredible mountain views you can get from any skyscraper in the country. While the city has seen a rise in snowfall over the last couple of years, Montanans are used to a bit of snow and have plenty of winter activities to keep themselves entertained and warm.
3. Helena, MT
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 18.5 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 29.52 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 59.57%
The second Montana city on our list takes us to its capital city of Helena. Founded during the Gold Rush of the late 1800s, Helena was once the spot where over 50 millionaires made their fortune. While the gold may be gone, the town is still a rich source of historic buildings, its famous cathedral, and beautiful mountain scenery.
4. Missoula, MT
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 25.4inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 39.16 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 54.17%
Last but not least on our snowy tour of Montana is the great city of Missoula. Often considered to be the cultural capital of Montana, the city is home to the University of Montana and many film, music, and arts festivals. The people of Missoula tend to love snow and welcome the rise in average snowfall with open arms.
5. Little Rock, AR
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 3.1 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.44 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 43.23%
When you think of snow, Arkansas usually doesn’t come to mind; however, Little Rock has seen some of the largest increases in snowfall in recent years. As Arkansas’ capital, Little Rock serves a very important role in the day-to-day lives of the people of the football-loving state. While the rise of 43.23% may seem sharp, it only amounts to slightly more than 1 inch per year.
6. Omaha, NE
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 18.4 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 26.08 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 41.74%
Omaha, Nebraska, has been considered the midwest’s hidden gem for years. The city is the largest in the state of Nebraska and is home to five Fortune 500 companies and several prestigious universities. While the snow has increased in recent years, Nebraskans are used to it and fill their winter with activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice hockey.
7. Boise, ID
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 14.9 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 20.86 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 40%
Known for its famous blue football field, Boise is home to much more than football. The capital of Idaho is also its cultural center, featuring the renowned Egyptian Theater, as well as the Boise Art Museum. Being surrounded by mountains, there is no shortage of fun possibilities with the rising snow levels.
8. Medford, OR
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 3.4 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 4.68 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 37.65%
Medford, Oregon, sits on the cusp of the least snowy US cities and the cities with the highest increase in snowfall in recent years. Originally a railroad town, Medford is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the state. The city’s increase in snowfall gives locals and travelers the chance to take in that scenery beneath a beautiful dusting of mountain snow.
9. Pocatello, ID
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 26.6 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 36.4 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 36.84%
Known as the “Gateway to the Northwest,” Pocatello has been a stop for travelers heading west for centuries. If you’re looking for wide-open skies and beautiful rolling hills, look no further than this quaint little town. Idaho is no stranger to snow, and the beautiful forests and hills are the perfect winter getaway.
10. North Platte, NE
Average Snowfall (1981–2010): 14.7 inches
Average Snowfall (2016–2021): 19.96 inches
Average Increase in Snowfall: 35.78%
Built upon the confluence of the North and South Platte Rivers, North Platte is an important railroad town connecting the east and west of America. The city was home to the world-famous cowboy and soldier Buffalo Bill, whose house still stands in the city today. Exploring this American legend’s abode is only more impactful while the beautiful prairie snow is falling.
Methodology:
This data was sourced through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Centers for Environmental Information (NOAA) National Climate Reports between 2016 and 2021 and ranked overall by average snowfall.