If you are looking to move to the US and are escaping the rain, you probably are wondering where it rains the least in the US.
Nevada is the driest state in the United States. It receives an annual rainfall average of about 10 inches per year, which is well below the national average.
Keep reading to learn which other areas of the United States see the least rain to help you determine if it’s the right location or you to visit or move to.
States With The Least Amount of Rain In The US
Before delving into the specific cities and towns with the least amount of rain, let’s first focus on the states you can count on being the driest.
Here is a list of the five States that receive the least amount of rain in the US:
- Nevada
- Utah
- Wyoming
- Arizona
- New Mexico
Unsurprisingly, most of these locations are in the western part of the United States. This is largely because of the terrain and topography of each of these states.
Next, let’s consider the time of year. This list will look a little bit different if you are looking for the least amount of rain in the summer or winter months.
States With The Least Amount of Rain in Summer
If you don’t mind a bit of dampness and rain in the winter but want a dry and warm summer, then the list of the places in the US with the least amount of rain will change.
The following states have the least amount of rain during the summer months:
- California
- Utah
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Idaho
This list also features western states. Again, their topography and proximity to the equator directly correlate with the amount of rain they receive in any given summer month.
States With The Least Amount of Rain in Winter
If you don’t mind rain in the summer since it cuts the heat but prefer your winter to be dry, then the places that receive the least amount of rain in the US may shock you.
These states get the least amount of rain in the winter months of the US:
- Nebraska
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- New Mexico
These states tend to be more central western within the United States. They feature plains, savannahs, and unique topography that prevents these states from seeing as much rain.
This also means that they are more likely to experience a drought. Keep this in mind when visiting, and be sure to pack ample amounts of water to stay hydrated.
Cities/Towns With The Least Amount of Rain in the US
Narrowing down generalized states is one thing; actually, learning which city or town to move to avoid the rain is another. These are the cities/towns in the US with the least amount of rainfall:
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Riverside, California
- San Diego, California
- San Jose, California
These cities have a rich history, unique entertainment, and charming neighborhoods. Below we outline some of their unique charms and highlight just how much each city receives annually.
Las Vegas, Nevada
When you think about Las Vegas, think big.
Las Vegas is home to one of the biggest and busiest airports, some of the world’s biggest hotels, and one of the biggest gambling locations in the world.
It does not rank largely for the amount of rain it receives annually. On average, Las Vegas, Nevada, receives 4.2 inches of rainfall per year.
This makes Las Vegas, Nevada, one of the driest places in the US. So if you want to avoid the rain, keep Las Vegas in mind.
Phoenix, Arizona
This city, known as the “Valley of the Sun,” is the second driest city in the United States. On average, this city receives about 7 inches of rain annually, most of which occurs in spring.
This bustling city is home to a busy job market, low cost of living, and gorgeous weather. This makes it desirable for many people since job security and affordability are typically top priorities.
Riverside, California
Riverside, California, is south of Los Angeles and north of San Diego. Beautiful mountains and protected conservation lands surround it.
Riverside sees an average rainfall of 9 inches of rain per year. This makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beautiful weather year-round without getting wet.
Visitors can expect the most rain in December, January, and February. These months receive an average of two inches of rain each year, so there is no need to pull out your rain boots.
San Diego, California
San Diego, California, is another bustling city located in California. This coastal city boasts beautiful beaches, an active night scene, and ample, exquisite cuisine.
Adventure enthusiasts adore San Diego for its ample recreational opportunities. These opportunities are not hindered due to inclement weather very often.
This is because San Diego receives an average rainfall of 10 inches annually. This means that, more often than not, sunny days are ahead.
San Jose, California
When visiting San Jose, you don’t need an umbrella since the city enjoys only 13 inches of rain each year. People flock to this city for food, nightlife, and recreational opportunities.
San Jose is also considered one of the safest large cities in America. Many visits due to its safety and to see Silicon Valley, Mount Hamilton, and Japantown.
Sunny Days Ahead
If you want to visit somewhere with a lot of sunshine and not a lot of rain, Nevada and California are your best options.
These beautiful states have great sights to see, making them prime places to live and visit within the United States.
