12 Warm Cities in the US in Winter To Enjoy Endless Sunshine

Some of the links might be affiliate links and, at no extra cost to you, we earn a small commission. See our disclaimer for more info.

This winter, there’s no reason you can’t lounge on a sunny beach with a drink in your hand. These warm cities in the US in winter live in perpetual summer and you can too.

The United States is a huge country with many different climates. While some major cities become winter wonderlands, others stay warm and sunny during the cooler months.

In these warm-weather destinations, you can still live out your summer dreams, even in the middle of January. Below are 12 warm cities in the US in winter.

Miami, Florida

Most Filmed Beaches_South Beach, Florida — © miami2you / Adobe Stock

Save this!

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later.

Miami is the southernmost major city on the US mainland. It sits at just over 25° latitude, close to the true tropics.

In January, the average temperature is above 70° F (21° C). When extreme cold fronts bring freezing weather to northern Florida in winter, Miami usually stays well above 60° F (16° C).

You’ll see towering coconut palms, mangos, and other tropical fruit trees growing proudly in people’s lawns and gardens. With all this warmth, it’s no wonder the city’s tourism industry thrives in winter, making it one of the best US cities to visit to get away from the cold.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is located at 21° latitude, putting it directly in the tropics. It never gets cold in the city, as it experiences an average January temperature of over 70° (21° C) in winter.

Because Hawaii is an island in the middle of the Pacific, it doesn’t experience the cold fronts that sometimes turn many East Coast cities into ice baths.

You’ll get to enjoy the warm ocean, surf, scuba dive, and hike without needing a coat or wetsuit. This makes Honolulu a must-visit destination for adventure lovers wanting warm weather and plenty of cultural highlights.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is at 18° latitude, right in the tropics. The warm sea surrounding it keeps it warm throughout the year. Its average high temperature is over 85° F (29° C) in January and February.

Even in January and February, you can spend the entire day at the beach unless it’s raining. You won’t need a coat to explore the city’s historic sights and natural wonders.

Winter is a great time to experience the city’s holiday festivals and events. Because the weather is slightly cooler in winter, locals love to throw parties outside at night, giving the city a lively energy that makes it a favorite for winter tourists.

San Diego, California

Warm destinations for February San Diego — © f11photo / Adobe Stock

San Diego’s average January high temperature is around 66° F (19° C). It’s located at 33° latitude and enjoys a dry Mediterranean climate.

With just a light coat, you’ll be able to enjoy the beaches, parks, and famous San Diego Zoo without feeling a chill. Most hotels keep their pools open through winter, so you can jump in for a cool swim before exploring the city.

In winter, San Diego hosts plenty of festivals and events, including its famous New Year’s Day celebration. Throughout the season, theme parks such as LegoLand make incredible destinations for families.

Keep it classy San Diego, keep it classy.

Tampa, Florida

Tampa has an average January temperature of around 60° F (16° C). You’ll get to experience palm-lined beaches and warm weather even as the rest of the country freezes.

Don’t miss the chance to lounge at the pool of a coastal resort or hotel. Then, try kayaking or taking a fishing trip.

At night, you may have to put on a small jacket, but it’s the perfect time to dine outside at one of the city’s many restaurants. Winter is also the best time to explore the nearby wildlife areas, free from the high number of tourists in summer.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is the perfect US city to visit to escape the grip of winter. Its average January high temperature is close to 70° F (21° C).

You’ll be able to lounge out in the pool and take in the sun. Then, hike the surrounding wilderness and natural areas.

During the winter, downtown Phoenix hosts fun events and festivals, such as the Arizona Balloon Classic hot air balloon show.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is a warm-weather destination that’s full of family fun and adventures, even in winter. The city enjoys an average high temperature of around 70° F (21° C) and plenty of sunshine.

Even in the depths of winter, you’ll see beautiful green foliage and palm trees. Many days throughout January and February offer hot and sunny weather, perfect for lounging at the pool.

The city’s theme parks also turn into event-filled destinations when the rest of the country is snowed in. Enjoy a roller coaster ride or two or even a round of golf. Just don’t forget your light sweatshirt in the evening. You won’t want to freeze.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s average high temperature in January is 59° (15° C). It has a cool Mediterranean climate with plenty of warm days, perfect for spending time outdoors.

When it’s not raining, you can catch sunny days in winter which are perfect for exploring the surrounding nature. For hikers, this cool weather is perfect.

You won’t have to worry about snow or ice since it hasn’t snowed in the city since 1976. When the rest of the country is experiencing freezing temperatures and blizzards, you’ll be lounging in the grass of Golden Gate Park or eating seafood on the docks, laughing at your family back home.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans may have some of the best holiday lights in the country, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a warm-weather destination. The city enjoys an average January high temperature of just under 70° F (21° C).

You can spend the day running around the city without a coat, especially during the occasional warm summer days. Visit its historical sights and famous parks, or take a boat tour through the bayou.

After the holidays, the city becomes ground zero for one of the largest parties in the US. Mardi Gras happens in early March this year, so don’t miss it if you can. Chances are, you’ll be dancing in warm weather.

Corpus Christi, Texas

Corpus Christi enjoys warm weather year-round, with an average January high temperature of around 68° F (20° C). Although the city sometimes experiences cold fronts, you probably won’t need a jacket during the day.

The city is famous for its outdoor activities and beaches. Head to the coastal resorts to experience infinite poolside relaxation or a round of golf.

Or, head downtown to experience the Texas State Aquarium or the USS Lexington, a WWII-era aircraft carrier. Downtown is also a great place to enjoy an epic meal before heading back to the beach for a bonfire under the stars.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is a warm-weather destination famous for its beaches, entertainment, and tourist sights. Imagine starting the day on the beach in Santa Monica before touring Hollywood and dining outside at one of downtown’s famous gastronomic hotspots. In LA, you can do anything in winter.

The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and warmth, even during the depth of winter. Extreme temperatures are rare, and the last time it snowed at sea level was in 1949.

🏨 Explore all your hotel options here

LA’s average high temperature in January is around 68° F (20° C). You’ll be comfortable with a light jacket during most winter days, making it one of the best cities in the US to visit in winter.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a beautiful Southern city that enjoys an average January high temperature of around 60° F (16° C). Many locals love the winter because of its cool temperatures and generally nice weather.

You can check out the historical neighborhoods downtown and some of the best museums in the country. Don’t miss the chance to walk along the famous River Street and grab a drink outside on a restaurant patio.

The city is famous for its golf courses, so if you love the sport, you can play as much as you want in winter without having to worry about snow. At night, the city cools off, making it ideal for cozy bonfires or hitting the town for its nightlife.