Top 12 Sunniest States in the USA
Ever wondered where the sun loves to shine the brightest in the United States? We’re here to shed light on the top 12 sunniest states, revealing the places where the weather is warm, and the skies are clear. In this journey through sunshine, we’ll explore our methodology, provide engaging charts, and answer some common questions about these sunny states.
Top 12 Sunniest States:
The sun has its favorites, and these states are on its VIP list:
- Arizona
- California
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- Texas
- Florida
- Colorado
- Utah
- Oregon
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Georgia
| State | Average Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Annual Sunlight (hours) | Sunniest States Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 64.6 | 3,822 | 3886.6 |
| Alaska | 26.6 | 2,126 | 2152.6 |
| Arizona | 70.1 | 3,872 | 3942.1 |
| Arkansas | 61.5 | 3,251 | 3312.5 |
| California | 61.0 | 3,947 | 4008.0 |
| Colorado | 49.3 | 3,072 | 3121.3 |
| Connecticut | 49.0 | 2,639 | 2688.9 |
| Delaware | 58.2 | 2,828 | 2886.2 |
| Florida | 70.7 | 2,912 | 2972.7 |
| Georgia | 63.5 | 3,148 | 3191.5 |
| Hawaii | 74.6 | 2,902 | 2976.6 |
| Idaho | 44.4 | 2,917 | 2961.4 |
| Illinois | 51.8 | 2,757 | 2808.8 |
| Indiana | 51.3 | 2,767 | 2818.3 |
| Iowa | 47.8 | 2,666 | 2713.8 |
| Kansas | 54.3 | 3,013 | 3067.3 |
| Kentucky | 56.1 | 2,812 | 2873.1 |
| Louisiana | 68.4 | 3,700 | 3768.4 |
| Maine | 41.0 | 2,522 | 2563.0 |
| Maryland | 55.2 | 2,737 | 2792.2 |
| Massachusetts | 48.6 | 2,684 | 2732.6 |
| Michigan | 45.2 | 2,492 | 2537.2 |
| Minnesota | 41.2 | 2,729 | 2770.2 |
| Mississippi | 64.3 | 3,239 | 3303.3 |
| Missouri | 54.5 | 2,732 | 2786.5 |
| Montana | 42.7 | 2,564 | 2606.7 |
| Nebraska | 50.1 | 2,786 | 2786.1 |
| Nevada | 49.9 | 3,946 | 3995.9 |
| New Hampshire | 45.4 | 2,597 | 2642.4 |
| New Jersey | 52.7 | 2,726 | 2778.7 |
| New Mexico | 57.1 | 3,489 | 3598.1 |
| New York | 49.6 | 2,523 | 2572.6 |
| North Carolina | 59.0 | 2,849 | 2879.0 |
| North Dakota | 40.4 | 2,628 | 2668.4 |
| Ohio | 50.7 | 2,554 | 2604.7 |
| Oklahoma | 60.4 | 3,258 | 3248.4 |
| Oregon | 51.2 | 2,726 | 2777.2 |
| Pennsylvania | 51.9 | 2,519 | 2570.9 |
| Rhode Island | 50.1 | 2,810 | 2850.1 |
| South Carolina | 64.2 | 2,927 | 2931.2 |
| South Dakota | 45.2 | 2,629 | 2674.2 |
| Tennessee | 59.4 | 2,898 | 2957.4 |
| Texas | 64.8 | 3,192 | 3296.8 |
| Utah | 52.9 | 3,134 | 3186.9 |
| Vermont | 42.9 | 2,473 | 2515.9 |
| Virginia | 55.1 | 2,815 | 2880.1 |
| Washington | 49.9 | 2,501 | 2548.9 |
| West Virginia | 51.8 | 2,534 | 2585.8 |
| Wisconsin | 43.1 | 2,691 | 2734.1 |
| Wyoming | 42.0 | 2,726 | 2768.0 |
Buckle up for a tour of these sunny destinations that boast warm temperatures and abundant sunlight throughout the year.
Methodology:
Curious about how we determined the sunniest states? We’ve got you covered. Our secret sauce involves two main ingredients: average temperature and annual sunlight hours. By combining these factors, we’ve pinpointed the states where the sun likes to show off its radiant beams the most.
Let’s take a closer look at some of these sun-soaked states and the elements that make them shine:
- Arizona:
- Average Temperature: 70.1°F
- Annual Sunlight Hours: 3,872
- Florida:
- Average Temperature: 70.7°F
- Annual Sunlight Hours: 2,912
- Oregon:
- Average Temperature: 51.2°F
- Annual Sunlight Hours: 2,726
These snippets give you a taste of the diverse climates that fall under the sunny umbrella, from the desert warmth of Arizona to the coastal charm of Oregon.
Why Does It Matter?
Sunshine isn’t just about good vibes; it plays a role in our daily lives. Sunlight influences our mood, provides essential vitamin D, and can even impact the economy in sun-drenched regions. Knowing which states bask in the most sunlight gives us insights into the places where sunny dispositions are practically guaranteed.
Conclusion:
As we wrap up our journey through the sunniest states in the USA, you now have a sunny itinerary for your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking warmth, planning a getaway, or simply daydreaming of sunny skies, these states have you covered. Embrace the sunshine and let the golden rays light up your days in these radiant destinations.