When you picture the United States, you might imagine sun-drenched beaches, sprawling deserts, or snowy mountain peaks. But a significant portion of the country is defined by a much wetter climate. For some, constant drizzle is a mood; for others, it’s a reason to stay indoors. If you’ve ever wondered where the clouds seem to never part, you’re in the right place. We’re taking a closer look at the 11 Rainiest States in the US: Which State Gets the Most Rain? to settle the debate and perhaps help you decide on your next vacation—or where you might need a reliable umbrella.
The amount of precipitation a state receives isn’t just a fun fact for trivia night; it shapes the local ecosystems, agriculture, and even the daily lifestyle of its residents. From the tropical downpours of Hawaii to the persistent mist of the Pacific Northwest, rain comes in many forms. Our list is primarily based on the average annual rainfall, which gives us a clear picture of which states are truly the soggies
The 11 Rainiest States in the US: Which State Gets the Most Rain?
Let’s start our countdown, moving from the very rainy to the absolute rainiest. It’s important to remember that rainfall isn’t always evenly distributed within a state. A coastal city might get drenched while an area just a hundred miles inland remains relatively dry.
11. Tennessee: Kicking off our list, Tennessee benefits from moisture rolling in from the Gulf of Mexico. Its mountainous eastern region, in particular, catches a lot of this precipitation, leading to lush, green forests and a vibrant music scene that thrives rain or shine.
10. Florida: Many people are surprised that Florida isn’t higher on the list. While it’s known for its intense afternoon thunderstorms during the wet season, its annual average is spread out, and some parts of the state are actually quite sunny. Still, the combination of heat and humidity makes for some spectacular, if brief, downpours.
9. Mississippi: As a Gulf Coast state, Mississippi is a direct recipient of warm, moist air from the Gulf. This leads to consistent rainfall throughout the year, supporting its vast agricultural lands and contributing to its humid, subtropical climate.
8. Alabama: Similar to its neighbor Mississippi, Alabama experiences significant rainfall, especially in the southern part of the state. The city of Mobile is often cited as one of the rainiest cities in the US, frequently seeing over 65 inches of rain a year.
7. North Carolina: The geography of North Carolina plays a huge role in its rainfall. The Atlantic Ocean feeds moisture to the coast, while the Appalachian Mountains in the west wring out precipitation from passing weather systems, creating a diverse range of wet environments.
6. Georgia: Northern Georgia, where the Blue Ridge Mountains begin, sees the highest rainfall totals in the state. This constant moisture is what gives the state’s northern hills their famous “smoky” appearance and deep blue-green hue.
5. Louisiana: With a long coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana is practically built on water. Its low-lying topography and southern location make it a prime target for tropical moisture, resulting in high humidity and frequent rain that sustains its unique bayous and wetlands.
And Then There Were Four
The top four spots are dominated by states with unique geographic features that maximize precipitation. These are the places where a good raincoat is considered a essential part of the wardrobe.
4. Washington: The reputation of the Pacific Northwest is well-earned. While western Washington, particularly the Olympic Peninsula, is famously wet and home to a temperate rainforest, eastern Washington lies in a rain shadow and is significantly drier. The contrast within the state is stark.
3. New York: This might be the biggest surprise on the list. While New York City has fairly moderate precipitation, areas like the Adirondack Mountains and the Great Lakes region receive a tremendous amount of lake-effect snow and rain. The state’s varied climate zones contribute to its high overall average.
2. Alaska: It’s not all snow and ice! Southeastern Alaska, with its countless fjords and islands, is a temperate rainforest. Cities like Ketchikan and Juneau receive an incredible amount of rainfall, which fuels the vast, dense Tongass National Forest. The sheer volume of precipitation in this region pushes Alaska’s average very high.
1. Hawaii: And the winner is the Aloha State! Hawaii’s tropical climate and towering volcanic mountains are the perfect recipe for rain. Warm, moist air from the Pacific gets pushed up the mountain slopes, cooling rapidly and condensing into heavy rainfall. On the windward (northeastern) side of Kauai, Mount Waialeale is one of the wettest spots on earth, averaging about 450 inches per year. While other areas of the islands are much sunnier, the state’s overall average is the highest in the US.
Living in a Rainy Climate
If you find yourself living in or visiting one of these states, embracing the weather is key. Locals in these areas don’t let a little (or a lot of) rain stop them. They invest in quality waterproof gear, from jackets to boots. Life goes on, and there’s a certain coziness that comes with a rainy day—perfect for enjoying a warm drink indoors or appreciating the intense green beauty it brings to the landscape. The rain is also what creates some of the most stunning environments on the continent, from Hawaii’s waterfalls to Washington’s Hoh Rain Forest.
Why Rainfall Matters Beyond the Forecast
This precipitation is more than just a weather statistic; it’s a vital resource. The consistent rainfall in these states supports immense biodiversity, providing water for ancient forests, complex river systems, and unique wildlife habitats. It also drives hydroelectric power and is crucial for agriculture in many regions. While too much rain can lead to challenges like flooding, it is fundamentally the force behind some of the most lush and productive ecosystems in the country.
So, which state gets the most rain? Hawaii takes the crown with its tropical showers, followed closely by the rainforests of Alaska and the stormy coasts of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a pluviophile (a lover of rain) or a sun-seeker, this list of the 11 rainiest states in the US offers a fascinating look at how water shapes the American landscape. It reminds us that from misty mountains to tropical paradises, rain is a powerful and life-giving force.