Have you ever packed for a vacation, dreaming of sunny skies and sunglasses, only to be greeted by a persistent, gentle gray ceiling of clouds? For some cities across the United States, this isn’t just an occasional weather disappointment; it’s a fundamental part of their character. The amount of sunshine a place receives can profoundly influence its local culture, outdoor activities, and even the general mood of its residents. If you’re curious about which urban areas see the sun the least, you’ve come to the right place.
We’re about to take a virtual tour of the 11 Cloudiest Cities in the US: Where Sunshine Is Rare. This list isn’t about passing storms or a single gloomy season; it’s about places where cloudy days are the statistical norm for a significant portion of the year. The rankings are typically based on the percentage of the year that skies are covered by clouds, often measured as “cloud cover.” So, grab a cozy sweater and a warm drink as we journey from the Pacific Northwest to the Great Lakes, discovering the cities where the sun is a cherished, fleeting guest.
What Makes a City Cloudy?
Before we meet our contenders, it helps to know why some places are naturally grayer than others. Two primary factors are major players: geography and proximity to large bodies of water. Cities located near oceans, like those in the Pacific Northwest, are often in the path of moisture-laden air. When this air hits mountain ranges, it rises, cools, and condenses into vast blankets of stratus clouds. Meanwhile, in the Great Lakes region, a phenomenon called “lake-effect” isn’t just about snow. The enormous lakes evaporate water year-round, providing a constant source of moisture that readily forms clouds, especially during the cooler months.
The 11 Cloudiest Cities in the US: Where Sunshine Is Rare
Now, let’s count down some of the cities that top the list for the most cloudy days per year. You’ll notice a clear geographic pattern emerging as we go.
Anchorage, Alaska: It should come as no surprise that an Alaskan city leads the pack. With incredibly short winter days and a coastal location, Anchorage experiences profound seasonal shifts. The cloud cover is most persistent from late fall through early spring, making the long summer days with up to 19 hours of daylight all the more precious.
Portland, Oregon:
A jewel of the Pacific Northwest, Portland is famous for its lush, green landscapes, and the rain and clouds are the reason why. The city’s location in the Willamette Valley makes it a perfect catchment for Pacific storms and marine layers, resulting in a long, drizzly, and beautifully green season from October through May.
Seattle, Washington:
Seattle’s cloudy reputation is well-earned, though its rainfall is often less than people expect. The cloud cover, however, is a near-constant companion for much of the year. The city’s maritime climate ensures a steady supply of gray skies, which has undoubtedly shaped its iconic coffee culture and vibrant indoor arts scene.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania:
Venturing away from the coast, Pittsburgh is a cloudiest city standout in the Northeast. Its location at the confluence of three rivers creates a valley that traps humidity and promotes cloud formation. Industrial history also contributes to particulates in the air that can aid in cloud development, leading to a high number of overcast days.
Buffalo, New York:
A classic example of a Great Lakes cloud factory, Buffalo is deeply influenced by Lake Erie. The “lake-effect” is a year-round weather driver, supplying ample moisture for clouds even when it’s not producing its famous snowfall. Gray skies are a common feature, particularly outside the summer months.
Cleveland, Ohio:
Much like its neighbor Buffalo, Cleveland sits on the shores of a Great Lake (Lake Erie) and shares a similar cloudy fate. The lake’s influence is dominant, often shielding the city from sunshine as weather systems move across the region.
Detroit, Michigan:
Another Great Lakes metropolis, Detroit’s proximity to Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie ensures a steady supply of cloud-cover ingredients. Its relatively flat topography allows these marine-influenced clouds to settle in for extended periods.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin:
Positioned on the western shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is perfectly situated to receive clouds generated by the lake. Onshore winds push moist air over the city, which frequently condenses into a solid overcast, especially during the spring and fall.
Burlington, Vermont:
Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain and surrounded by the Green Mountains, Burlington’s geography is a perfect recipe for clouds. The lake provides moisture, and the mountains help lift the air, creating conditions ripe for persistent overcast skies.
Eugene, Oregon:
Returning to the Pacific Northwest, Eugene shares the regional trait of abundant cloud cover. Located in a valley south of Portland, it experiences a similar pattern of marine air flowing in from the coast, leading to many gray, drizzly days that keep the area famously green.
Grand Rapids, Michigan:
Rounding out our list is another Michigan city heavily influenced by the Great Lakes. Grand Rapids, though not directly on Lake Michigan, is close enough to feel its full climatic effect, frequently experiencing the cloud decks that form over the lake and drift inland.
Living Life Under the Clouds
If you find yourself living in or visiting one of these cities, don’t despair. Residents of these areas have learned not just to cope, but to thrive. They embrace the cozy, indoor ambiance that cloudy weather brings. It’s a climate that fosters a rich culture of coffee shops, bookstores, museums, and a deep appreciation for the arts. When the sun does finally break through, the entire city seems to come alive outdoors, celebrating the brilliant, cherished sunshine.
From a practical standpoint, people in these regions often prioritize getting enough Vitamin D, sometimes through supplements or “happy lights” that mimic sunlight. They also invest in good rain gear and learn to enjoy outdoor activities in all weather, from hiking in a light mist to cross-country skiing on a gray winter day.
A Silver Lining to the Gray Skies
While this list highlights the 11 cloudiest cities in the US, it’s important to remember that cloudy weather isn’t inherently negative. These overcast days are the very reason these regions are so incredibly lush and fertile. The soft, diffused light is also a photographer’s dream, and the gentle climate is often easier on the body than extreme heat. Each city on this list has a unique charm and vibrancy that is, in many ways, defined by its weather.
In the end, beauty and quality of life are not solely determined by sunny days. The cities where sunshine is rare have cultivated resilient, creative, and community-oriented cultures that shine brightly, even when the sky above does not.