Weather plays a significant role in shaping the identity of a region. For instance, coastal cities like Astoria, OR, experience cloudy weather for a majority of the year, while desert cities like Phoenix, AZ, enjoy clear skies throughout the year.
When choosing a place to live, considering the weather and climate is crucial. Whether you prefer sunny and warm weather or rainy days, understanding the type of weather that suits you best is important when selecting a city to reside in. So, if you are planning a move to a new location, continue reading to explore the cloudiest cities in the U.S. and determine if they align with your preferences.
Defining Cloudy Weather
Before delving into the cloudiest cities, it is essential to understand what constitutes cloudy weather. Cloudiness is categorized into four types: mostly clear (or sunny during daytime), partly cloudy/sunny, mostly cloudy, and cloudy/overcast.
- Mostly clear: 1/8th of the sky covered by clouds
- Partly cloudy: 3/8-5/8ths of the sky covered by clouds
- Mostly cloudy: 6/8-7/8ths of the sky covered by clouds
- Cloudy: 7/8ths or more of the sky covered by clouds.
This list focuses on cities falling under the last category, cloudy. Keep reading to discover the ranking of the cloudiest cities with populations exceeding 100,000 based on their annual number of cloudy days.
Cloudiest Cities in the U.S.
1. Anchorage, Alaska
239 cloudy days annually
Anchorage, AK, the northernmost major city in the U.S., tops the list as the cloudiest city. The city experiences dense cloud cover for over 65% of the year, largely due to atmospheric rivers and its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Interestingly, Anchorage witnesses more cloud cover during summer.
Anchorage is renowned for its stunning landscapes and offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, especially during the extended daylight hours of summer. However, it is also the second-coldest major city in the U.S and is experiencing changes in its climate due to global warming.
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2. Seattle, Washington
226 cloudy days annually
Seattle, WA, known for its outdoor lifestyle, is situated amidst picturesque mountains and the Puget Sound. The city experiences consistent rainfall and cloud cover throughout much of the year, influenced by weather patterns from the Pacific Ocean. With iconic Mount Rainier as a backdrop, Seattle offers a blend of recreational opportunities and a tech-centric culture.
Popular attractions in Seattle include Pike Place Market, the Amazon Spheres, the Space Needle, and the Seattle Great Wheel.
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3. Portland, Oregon
222 cloudy days annually
Portland, OR, known for its unique charm, experiences frequent cloud cover. The city’s climate is influenced by the Pacific Ocean, resulting in slightly warmer and drier conditions compared to Seattle. With four distinct seasons, Portland offers sunny summers and cool winters.
Portland is a hub for eclectic dining, boutique shopping, and local breweries, easily accessible via public transportation. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Forest Park, the largest urban forest in the nation, as well as the nearby Columbia Gorge and Oregon coastline.
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4. Eugene, Oregon
209 cloudy days annually
Eugene, OR, known as TrackTown USA, boasts a vibrant outdoor culture and is located just south of Portland. The city shares a similar climate with Portland, offering residents a mix of small-town charm and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Eugene is ideal for those seeking a mid-sized city with a college-town vibe. It is also a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts and wine lovers in the Pacific Northwest. With easy access to both the coast and mountains, Eugene provides a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
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5. Buffalo, New York
208 cloudy days annually
Buffalo, NY, renowned for its snowy winters and vibrant sports scene, ranks as the fifth-cloudiest city in the U.S. Situated near Niagara Falls and a short distance from New York City, Buffalo offers a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities.
The city experiences frequent cloud cover due to its proximity to the Great Lakes, particularly Lake Erie, leading to significant snowfall during the winter months. Buffalo’s location results in a high number of partly cloudy days, making it one of the cloudiest cities in the country.
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6. Salem, Oregon
208 cloudy days annually
Located in the picturesque Willamette Valley, Salem, OR, serves as both a small college city and the state capital. Surrounded by the ocean and mountains, Salem experiences cool and cloudy weather throughout the year, with warm and sunny summers.
The region is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, attracting wine enthusiasts for tastings and tours. Salem hosts the Oregon State Fair and various festivals, offering residents and visitors a vibrant cultural scene.
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7. Grand Rapids, Michigan
205 cloudy days annually
Grand Rapids, MI, a thriving city known for its culinary delights and craft beverage scene, is situated near Lake Michigan. Referred to as Beer City, Grand Rapids offers a diverse selection of craft breweries and is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts.
The city experiences significant snowfall in winter and drizzly weather during fall and spring, similar to other cities near the Great Lakes. Cloudy and gloomy weather is typical outside of the summer months in Grand Rapids.
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8. Syracuse, New York
205 cloudy days annually
Situated between multiple lakes, including Lake Ontario and Lake Onondaga, Syracuse, NY, offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city experiences frequent cloud cover due to its proximity to the Great Lakes but remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Syracuse hosts the Great New York State Fair annually and experiences abundant snowfall during winter, creating a winter wonderland for residents and visitors. The region’s stunning landscapes, including the Erie Canal and Chittenango Falls, highlight the Finger Lakes region’s charm.
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9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
203 cloudy days annually
Pittsburgh, PA, known for its industrial history and vibrant culture, experiences a climate similar to other cities near the Great Lakes. The city encounters cloudy weather during fall through spring, influenced by the convergence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.
Referred to as Steel City, Pittsburgh offers a range of outdoor activities, museums, and iconic cuisine, making it an attractive place to call home. The city’s waterfront and historic market are popular attractions for locals and visitors.