The picturesque scenes of winter wonderlands in holiday movies and greeting cards often mask the harsh reality of the coldest cities in the United States. From deadly blizzards to freezing temperatures, these cities can be more treacherous than nostalgic family memories suggest. However, come prepared and bundled up, and the best of what these 12 cities offer becomes appetizing rather than just survivable. Places like Anchorage, Alaska, certainly can punch the hardest due to their nearly-arctic locations. Still, many states in the Midwest possess a frighteningly low daily average temperature, which is how this assembly is ranked. Some of the reasons for that include cold air masses from Canada moving southward, the chilling effect of the great lakes, and how capable snow cover is at reflecting sunlight. In short, while braving the cold in these 12 cities may seem daunting, with proper preparation and warm clothing, exploring their unique features can be a rewarding experience.

　　

US Cities With The Lowest Normal Daily Mean Winter Temperatures 

Minneapolis, Minnesota: 19.6°F  Milwaukee, Wisconsin: 26.9°F  Grand Rapids, Michigan: 27.3°F Buffalo, New York: 27.8°F Detroit, Michigan: 28.3°F  Rochester, New York: 28.5°F  Chicago, Illinois: 29.2°F  Hartford, Connecticut: 29.8°F  Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: 31.3°F  Indianapolis, Indiana: 31.4°F Cleveland, Ohio: 31.5°F Kansas City, Missouri: 31.9°F 

1. Minneapolis, Minnesota: 19.6°F  

Snow covering the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in winter. Minneapolis is a Midwestern U.S. city famous for its malls, music, and art. But, a daily winter average temperature of 19.6°F means it is one of the colder cities in America. Snowfall is common from late October to mid-April, making Minneapolis an excellent place for snowshoers, skiers, and other winter sports enthusiasts to explore. The dry climate makes the cold temperature bearable in most cases, while on warmer days, you can get comfortable with an extra layer or two removed. Outdoor activities and beautiful sights make Minneapolis an ideal location to visit during winter months – just remember to bring your scarf and hat.

　　

2. Milwaukee, Wisconsin: 26.9°F 

Winter scene in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a city known for its bitter-cold winter months. The average daily temperature for December through February is 26.9°F, although temperatures can dip well below zero. During the winter in Milwaukee, days usually start sunny and bright but quickly transition to overcast skies by the gusty winds flowing off the lake. To enjoy the winter season to its fullest, Milwaukee citizens often participate in activities such as ice skating, skiing, snowmobiling, and even creating fantastic ice sculptures.

　　

3. Grand Rapids, Michigan: 27.3°F  

The winter landscape of Ada Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Grand Rapids is a fantastic place to live, especially in winter. The daily average temperature is an invigorating 27.3 °F during the season, adequate for all outdoor activities and snow sports. As much as we love artificial snow on the slopes, nothing beats the real thing. Located on the Michigan-Indiana border, Grand Rapids has a strong economy and offers many attractions and activities for all kinds of tourists. During the winter months, many visitors relish the chance to go skiing or snowboarding in nearby towns such as Rockford. From December until March, thousands flock to Grand Rapids to take advantage of its mild winter climate while still feeling the delightful chill in the air that makes it so unique.

　　

4. Buffalo, New York: 27.8°F 

Snow ploughs attempt to clear the snow at Buffalo Niagara International Airport in Buffalo, New York. Editorial credit: Paolo Costa / Shutterstock.com Buffalo, New York, is a city on the eastern shores of Lake Erie, right at the gateway of Niagara Falls. The winter season in this city lasts from November to April, and during this time, temperatures average around 27.8°F. This pattern means that Buffalo typically experiences long stretches of cooler weather and substantial snowfall. Although the chill can be a bit harsh, locals use the opportunities presented by these conditions to participate in outdoor winter activities like exploring nature preserves and ogling the semi-frozen falls. And if you are looking for an adventure further up north, the Adirondacks are always nearby for full-on snow fun.

　　

5. Detroit, Michigan: 28.3°F 

Skyline of Detroit, Michigan, in winter.  Detroit's winters are notoriously cold, with an average temperature of around 28.3°F throughout winter. The wind off Lake St Clair and Lake Erie often bring those classic gusts of exceptionally icy air, making it feel even colder than the thermometer reads. Residents and visitors should know to come prepared for the chill with appropriate clothing and winter safety equipment. Residents who brave the cold enjoy outdoor activities such as ice skating or hockey on frozen ponds and scenic snowshoeing expeditions in nearby parks. Despite the frigid temperatures, Detroit's annual wintertime events, such as the Fire & Ice Festival, keep spirits high and allow people to come together to enjoy the beauty of a Michigan winter.

　　

6. Rochester, New York: 28.5°F 

Benches covered with snow at High Falls, Rochester, New York. Located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario in western New York, Rochester is one of the snowiest big cities in the United States. With a daily mean winter temperature of 28.5°F, Rochester experiences cold and snowy winters with an average of 98 inches of snow each year. Despite its snowy climate, Rochester is well-known for being one of the best places to live in the United States due to its vibrant culture and thriving local economy. This lakeside city is home to several cultural festivals throughout the year and a booming business sector that includes IBM, Eastman Kodak Co., and Xerox Corporation. After all, computers prefer a nice chill. Whether you enjoy snowy winters or not, Rochester is a great location.

　　

7. Chicago, Illinois: 29.2°F 

Ice in the Chicago River flowing through Chicago, Illinois. Chicago is known for its bitterly harsh winters, frequently falling below freezing. The daily winter average temperature in the Windy City is a chilly 29.2°F (but feels like the North Pole), and heavy snowfall blankets the area all season. This dynamic makes Chicago one of the coldest cities in the United States, alongside equally frigid cities like Minneapolis and Anchorage. Despite the cold weather, however, Chicagoans are unfazed. Every year they bravely venture outdoors to enjoy winter activities like sledding and snowball fighting. Afterwards, nothing beats curling up inside with hot cocoa and a good book at night.

　　

8. Hartford, Connecticut: 29.8°F 

Cyclists at the start of the men's singlespeed event at the cyclocross nationals in Hartford on a snowy, winter day. Editorial credit: Rena Schild / Shutterstock.com Hartford is famous for its extreme winter weather. The average temperature during the cold season is rarely above freezing, hovering at a chilly 29.8°F. Winter lasts from December to March in New England, with snow often dusting the ground throughout the season and cold winds blowing in off the Atlantic Ocean. Locals are well equipped with warm coats, gloves, and hats to protect them against the winter chill in Hartford. Despite the low temperatures, many venture out to participate in ice skating and other winter sports available at numerous facilities across the city.

　　

9. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: 31.3°F 

Iconic view of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with the Duquesne incline during a snow storm. Pittsburgh has cold winters and mild summers. Every day in the winter brings average temperatures around 31.3°F making it one of the coldest cities in the United States during this season. The weather in Pittsburgh includes plenty of snowfall, with more than 11 inches per year on average, and temperatures that can drop as low as -15°F or less on some days. As such, locals must take extra precautions to stay warm in winter, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities or walking around town.

　　

10. Indianapolis, Indiana: 31.4°F 

People enjoying sledding in the snow in Indianapolis, Indiana. Editorial credit: Ted Alexander Somerville / Shutterstock.com Indianapolis endures cold temperatures in the winter months. As the state's capital, it features a bustling atmosphere and plenty of things to do. However, from December through February, temperatures dip to an average of 31.4°F during the day - perfect for skiing and other winter activities, such as sledding. Of course, when night falls, that temperature quickly drops closer to zero degrees Fahrenheit or below due to low dew points and lack of sunlight. By bundling up with warm clothes, residents can adjust to even more frigid weather conditions whenever snowstorms hit the area. If you are lucky enough to witness an icestorm: make sure your vehicle is somewhere safe, but nothing compares to walking outside and seeing every leaf and tree turned into a glistening ice sculpture.

　　

11. Cleveland, Ohio: 31.5°F

Cleveland, Ohio during a blizzard in winter. Cold and stormy winters are common in Cleveland. With an average daily winter temperature of 31.5°F and 64 inches of snowfall, it is no wonder that the city's citizens stay bundled up in warm winter coats and hats. Although the temperatures may be arctic-like, Cleveland draws many people due to its fascinating attractions, such as its rich musical history, sports teams, and strong community pride. From experiencing great music at a live venue to exploring the many galleries and museums, there is no shortage of things to do in this bustling Ohio city - making each visit worthwhile despite potential subzero temperatures.

　　

12. Kansas City, Missouri: 31.9°F 

Kansas City airport covered in snow in winter in Kansas City, Missouri. Editorial credit: Michael Siluk / Shutterstock.com Kansas City is known for its moderate winters, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. With an average winter daily temperature of 31.9°F, it's the perfect place to enjoy all winter offers without sacrificing comfort. Whether taking a stroll in the crisp air or bearing the chill to explore one of KC's famous BBQ restaurants, those who visit will find plenty of fun activities that are enjoyable even while bundled up. In addition, mild temperatures mean outdoor skating rinks and Winterfest celebrations can stay running longer than in more extreme winter climates. For these reasons and more, Kansas City is an ideal destination for any snowbird looking to escape their colder city in search of a warmer winter experience.

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　　All in all, winter temperatures in the United States vary significantly. In the north, temperatures are considerably more severe. Minneapolis is an excellent example of this as its average daily winter temperature sits just shy of 20°F. Moving further south in the Midwest region and into the Northeast corridor, winter temperatures steadily increase. It's important to remember that these are just average values, and fluctuations will likely occur due to various weather patterns. Additionally, depending on how far inland a city or town is located, its proximity to large bodies of water can affect summer and winter weather patterns. No matter where you choose to spend your next winter season, it would be wise to plan accordingly and dress appropriately to enjoy the climate without reservations or regret.

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