If you're considering a move, understanding a city's climate is as crucial as checking its real estate market. The cloudiest major city in the U.S. is Anchorage, Alaska, with 239 cloudy days per year. This article ranks the top 10 cloudiest American cities with over 100,000 residents, based on data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to help you decide if a sunnier or gloomier climate aligns with your lifestyle.
We define a cloudy day as one where 7/8ths or more of the sky is covered by clouds, a classification used by meteorologists. This is distinct from "partly cloudy" conditions. Our assessment focuses on the practical implications for daily life and housing decisions in each location.
What Makes a City Cloudy?
Cloud cover is primarily influenced by geography. Cities near large bodies of water, like the Pacific Ocean or the Great Lakes, experience more clouds due to moisture in the atmosphere. When air moves over cooler water and then over land, it cools and condenses, forming clouds. This phenomenon is especially pronounced with lake-effect snow and cloud cover in the Great Lakes region. Proximity to mountains can also trap weather systems, leading to persistent gray skies.
A Guide to the 10 Cloudiest Major U.S. Cities
The following list provides key details for anyone evaluating a potential move to these areas, from housing links to seasonal weather patterns.
1. Anchorage, Alaska
- Cloudy Days/Year: 239
- Living Experience: Anchorage's climate is defined by its northern latitude and proximity to the Pacific. Surprisingly, the densest cloud cover often occurs in summer. Residents enjoy spectacular wild landscapes and long summer daylight hours. The real estate market offers unique opportunities, but winters are cold and are becoming warmer and snowier due to climate change.
2. Seattle, Washington
- Cloudy Days/Year: 226
- Living Experience: Famous for its consistent, drizzle-prone weather, Seattle's cloud cover is a point of local identity. The city boasts a thriving tech economy, unparalleled outdoor recreation, and iconic attractions like Pike Place Market. The housing market is competitive, reflecting the city's growth.
3. Portland, Oregon
- Cloudy Days/Year: 222
- Living Experience: Slightly warmer and drier than Seattle, Portland has four distinct seasons with sunny summers. The city is known for its eclectic culture, food scene, and access to nature, including Forest Park. The property tax rate is an important factor for homebuyers to consider in the area.
4. Eugene, Oregon
- Cloudy Days/Year: 209
- Living Experience: As a major college town, Eugene offers a mid-sized city feel with easy access to the coast and mountains. Its climate is similar to Portland's, and the city is a hub for track and field events. The steady population growth indicates a stable housing market.
5. Buffalo, New York
- Cloudy Days/Year: 208
- Living Experience: Buffalo's cloudiness is driven by the lake-effect from Lake Erie. This also results in heavy snowfall. The city has a rich architectural history, a revitalized waterfront, and a passionate sports culture. Affordable housing compared to other major northeastern cities is a significant draw.
6. Salem, Oregon
- Cloudy Days/Year: 208
- Living Experience: Oregon's state capital sits in the Willamette Valley, a region known for its wineries. The climate is cool and cloudy for much of the year, with pleasant summers. It offers a quieter, more government-centered alternative to Portland.
7. Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Cloudy Days/Year: 205
- Living Experience: Located near Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids experiences significant cloud cover and snow in winter. It's a hub for craft beer and has a growing economy. The cost of living and housing is generally more affordable than the national average.
8. Syracuse, New York
- Cloudy Days/Year: 205
- Living Experience: Surrounded by lakes, Syracuse is another city heavily impacted by lake-effect weather, receiving over 120 inches of snow annually. It provides access to the Finger Lakes region and has a strong community feel. First-time homebuyers may find favorable opportunities here.
9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Cloudy Days/Year: 203
- Living Experience: Situated at the confluence of three rivers, Pittsburgh has a climate similar to other Great Lakes cities. It has transformed from its industrial past into a center for education, healthcare, and technology. The city's distinct neighborhoods each offer different real estate vibes.
10. Cleveland, Ohio
- Cloudy Days/Year: 202
- Living Experience: Cleveland's cloudiest days are typically in winter due to its location on Lake Erie. Summers are warm and humid. The city is known for its cultural institutions, sports teams, and revitalized downtown, with a varied housing stock.
Key Considerations Before Moving to a Cloudy City
Based on our experience assessment, your decision should extend beyond the number of sunny days.
- Evaluate Your Personal Preferences: Do you find cloudy weather peaceful and cozy, or does it negatively affect your mood? This is the most important factor.
- Understand Seasonal Changes: Many of these cities have beautiful, sunny summers. The cloudiness is often concentrated from fall through spring.
- Research the Local Economy: A strong job market can offset climatic drawbacks. Cities like Seattle and Pittsburgh have robust economies.
- Factor in Additional Costs: In cities with heavy snowfall, budget for winter-related expenses like snow removal, higher heating bills, and appropriate tires.
- Get a Realistic Feel: If possible, visit your prospective city during its gloomiest season, not just in the summer, to make an informed choice.
Ultimately, choosing where to live involves balancing climate with other critical factors like employment, housing costs, and lifestyle amenities. While Anchorage tops the list for cloud cover, it also offers a unique and rewarding lifestyle for those prepared for its environment.
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