What Are the Hottest States In the U.S. [2025]?

If you’re searching for warm weather, we have a list of the 10 hottest states for you. From Arizona to Texas to Georgia, the U.S. offers many options for moving to a warm-weather region.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced that 2024 was the warmest year on record, with temperatures approximately 1.55 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Heatwaves have also impacted cities around the world, including the U.S., making it necessary to understand where the country’s warmest climates are.

In this guide, we’ll rank the 10 hottest states in the U.S. based on average summer temperatures and share key information about each state, including average annual temperatures, record highs, and costs of living.

How We Determined the Hottest States

To rank the hottest states, we analyzed average summer temperatures for June, July, and August 2024 using data from the National Centers for Environmental Information. This method focuses specifically on summer heat while excluding winter temperatures. We also provide each state’s average annual temperature using data from World Population Review for context.

What Are the 10 Hottest States in the U.S.?

1. Texas

• Average summer temperature: 84.0 F
• Average annual temperature: 68.6 F
• Record high temperature: 120.0 F in 1994 and 1936 (Monahans and Seymour)

Texans know there are a few guarantees to living in the state. You can always find great barbecue, cowboy boots are a way of life, and it’s going to be hot, hot, hot all summer long. Texas is large, with an area of 268,597 square miles, approximately 1.65 times that of California.

So if you’re looking for heat, the state has a lot of square footage to offer if you’re ready to set down roots. There are many popular cities and smaller towns for new residents to move to, and the median home cost will only set you back $297,600.

2. Florida

• Average summer temperature: 83.5 F
• Average annual temperature: 73.0 F
• Record high temperature: 109.0 F in 1931 (Monticello)

Known as a haven for retirees, Florida’s warm weather is kind to older adults with achy bones, joints, and old injuries. With an average summer temperature of 83.5 F, it’s warm enough to enjoy summer activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, pickleball, and more.

The Sunshine State offers residents warm weather year-round and 825 miles of beaches. Other perks alongside the warm weather include no individual state income tax and a median house cost of $362,400.

3. Louisiana

• Average summer temperature: 82.8 F
• Average annual temperature: 69.2 F
• Record high temperature: 114.0 F in 1936 (Plain Dealing)

Louisiana’s subtropical climate keeps summers warm and winters mild. With everything from Mardi Gras in New Orleans to delicious food, it has a lot to offer its residents. Summer temperatures sit at an average of 82.8 F, and the year-round average of 69.2 F means things never get too hot.

Louisiana’s median home price of $184,800 makes it an affordable place to settle down, and the cost of living is currently 11.1% lower than the national average.

4. Arizona

• Average summer temperature: 82.1 F
• Average annual temperature: 62.5 F
• Record high temperature: 128.0 F in 1994 (Lake Havasu City)

If living in a desert is your dream, then a move to Arizona may be perfect for you. Popular cities like Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, and Scottsdale, situated near the desert, offer numerous warm-weather activities.

Arizona’s average summer temperature hovers around 82.1 F, and the average annual temperature sits at 62.5 F. Those moving to the state will find a median home price of $407,400, which is $69,300 higher than the national average of $338,100.

5. Oklahoma

• Average summer temperature: 81.7 F
• Average annual temperature: 63.1 F
• Record high temperature: 120.0 F in 1936 (Altus, Poteau, and Alva)

Oklahoma residents know that extreme temperatures are part of the state’s charm. With a mix of wide-open plains, rolling hills, and welcoming cities like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors (even when temperatures soar and you’re running inside to turn on the air conditioning).

The state’s median home price is approximately $174,600, and its cost of living is 17.8% lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for new residents looking to settle down. Oklahoma offers a mix of cultural attractions, recreational activities, and plenty of summer sunshine for those who enjoy the heat.

6. Mississippi

• Average summer temperature: 81.4 F
• Average annual temperature: 66.6 F
• Record high temperature: 115.0 F in 1930 (Holly Springs)

Mississippi’s summers are hot and humid, with an average summer temperature of 81.4 F, making it an ideal home for warm-weather lovers. Cities like Jackson, Biloxi, and Oxford give residents a diverse mix of outdoor and cultural activities, ranging from riverfront adventures to music festivals.

With a median home price of $155,300, Mississippi offers an affordable cost of living (21.2% below the national average) alongside Southern charm, warm summers, and mild winters, making year-round living comfortable.

7. Georgia

• Average summer temperature: 80.7 F
• Average annual temperature: 65.9 F
• Record high temperature: 112.0 F in 1952 and 1983 (Louisville and Greenville)

Peaches, pies, pecans, peanuts, oh my! Georgia is known for many things, including the aforementioned crops—and its weather. With a summer average of 80.7, the state stays warm, making it the perfect place for the agricultural industry to thrive. Cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta have a heavy dose of Southern charm and history, and offer outdoor recreation with summer heat that’s warm but not extreme.

The state’s median home price is about $308,200, and it has a cost of living 5.5% below the national average. Mild winters make it comfortable year-round.

8. Alabama

• Average summer temperature: 80.5 F
• Average annual temperature: 65.4 F
• Record high temperature: 112.0 F in 1925 (Centerville)

Alabama summers average 80.5 F, giving residents plenty of warm, sunny days for outdoor adventures. From the Gulf Coast beaches to the rolling hills of northern Alabama, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the heat.

With a median home price of $214,000 and a cost of living that’s 15.9% below the national average, Alabama offers affordable living alongside Southern charm and hospitality. Its warm summers are perfect for water sports, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors.

9. Arkansas

• Average summer temperature: 79.5 F
• Average annual temperature: 63.3 F
• Record high temperature: 120.0 F in 1936 (Ozark)

Arkansas has hot summers, with an average summer temperature of 79.5 F, making it ideal for residents seeking warm weather. The state’s natural beauty—from the Ozarks to the Ouachita Mountains and the Mississippi Delta—offers plenty of outdoor activities in the summer heat.

The median home price is approximately $181,800, and the state has a cost of living that’s 22.5% lower than the national average, making Arkansas an affordable place for those looking to relocate.

10. New Mexico

• Average summer temperature: 74.5 F
• Average annual temperature: 56.3 F
• Record high temperature: 122.0 F in 1994 (Waste Isolation Pilot Plant)

New Mexico has warm summers, averaging 74.5 F in the summertime, which makes it ideal for residents who want heat without extreme humidity. Cities like Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Las Cruces offer desert landscapes, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and manageable summer warmth.

With a median home price of $267,100, New Mexico has a cost of living that’s 11.6% below the national average, alongside its desert beauty. Summers are warm and sunny, making it perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and mild winters.

Final Thoughts

The U.S. continues to warm up, and some of its hottest states offer warm, muggy conditions all year round. Florida wins the crown as the hottest U.S. state with an average summer temperature of 83.5 F and an average annual temperature of 73.0 F.

Hottest States in the U.S.

Is Arizona the hottest state?

No, although it is a common misconception, Arizona is not the hottest U.S. state. Currently, Florida is the hottest state in the U.S., while Arizona trails in fifth place. However, Arizona’s highest recorded temperature of 128 F ranks among the hottest ever documented in the contiguous United States.

What is the hottest state in the U.S. year-round?

Florida ranks as the hottest state overall due to its combination of high summer temperatures and warm winters.

Why is humidity such a big deal in the hot states?

Humidity makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, which prevents your body from cooling down effectively. This can make moderate temperatures feel significantly hotter.

Which state is the hottest?

If you're wondering, “Is Florida the hottest state right now?” you would be correct. It has both the highest average maximum temperatures and the highest average temperatures overall.

Which states have the most 100-degree days?

Arizona, Texas, and Nevada consistently lead in the number of days over 100 F, especially in southern regions and the desert.

Can you live comfortably in a state with extreme heat?

Yes, with the right infrastructure, home features, and lifestyle adjustments, many people thrive in hot states. However, the cost of comfort, which may include higher electric bills, can be substantial.

Are hot states becoming more popular or less popular?

It depends. Some people are drawn to the sun and low tax rates (like in Florida, the hottest state in the U.S.), while others are leaving due to extreme weather and rising living costs. Climate resilience is becoming a bigger factor in where people choose to live.