Although spring doesn't officially start until Sunday, March 20, it's never too early to think about warmer temps and sunny days. If winter isn't your favorite season, we've got you covered. Check out the 10 best cities for winter if you happen to actually hate winter.
Tucson, AZ
- Average 1-BR rent: $969
- Median home sale price: $307,560
- Population: 542,629
Tucson, also known as the Old Pueblo, is one of the best cities for winter — if you're looking for lots of sunshine and moderate temperatures. With an average high of 67 and an average low of 38 during the winter months, you'll never have to bundle up to go exploring around Tucson.
To make the most of the gorgeous winters in Tucson, head to Saguaro National Park. Here you can marvel at the nation's largest cacti while sharing the trail with Gila monsters. Afterward, head to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. This self-described "fusion experience" includes a zoo, botanical garden, art gallery and classes, a natural history museum and an aquarium.
Looking for something a little more low-key in the desert? Go to Tucson's beloved Yellow Brick Coffee for a treat (or two) or a nightcap at Portal, a swanky cocktail bar on the historic fourth avenue.
Tampa, FL
- Average 1-BR rent: $1,488
- Median home sale price: $355,000
- Population: 384,959
It's no surprise to see Tampa make the list as one of the best cities for winter — Florida is the sunshine state after all. With an average winter high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 52, Tampa offers bountiful winter sunsets and endless outdoor recreational activities.
First on the must-do list is The Tampa Riverwalk — a 2.6-mile walkway on the river and an exceptional destination for people watching while basking in the winter sun. After taking in the riverwalk, lather on SPF and head to the University of South Florida's Botanical Gardens to check out its living collection of more than 3,000 plants. Once you've worked up an appetite, head to Ginger Beard Coffee for a nitro brew that will knock your socks off and pick up life-changing sandwiches from Sandwichi.
Still seeking adventure? Swing by the Big Cat Rescue. Owned by Carol Baskin of the Tiger King fame, this big cat animal sanctuary features a plethora of tigers, bobcats and servals to see up close and personal.
Phoenix, AZ
- Average 1-BR rent: $1,360
- Median home sale price: $425,000
- Population: 1,608,139
If warm winters and blue skies are what you're after, look no further than Phoenix, AZ. Also known as the "Valley of the Sun," this desert city shows off during the winter months with an average high of 68 and a low of 39 — making it one of the best cities for winter if you hate traditional winter climate.
To make the most of Phoenix's gorgeous winter weather, head to South Mountain Park. With over 16,000 acres and three mountain ranges (the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila and Guadalupe), this park has over 50 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and biking. For a dreamy photo op, make it to the top of Dobbins Lookout and bask in the magic of a 2,330-foot panoramic view of Phoenix. Not into hiking but still looking to experience a little heat? Head to the Hall of Flame, a museum dedicated to chronicling the history of firefighting.
No matter what outdoor activities you get into in Phoenix, leave time to have a night out. Head to Beckett's Table for seasonal New American food or The Cellar for wine and tapas and then head to the Cobra Arcade Bar for drinks and games.
Honolulu, HI
- Average 1-BR rent: $4,500
- Median home sale price: $555,000
- Population: 1,016,508
With an average high of 78 degrees during the winter months, Honolulu is the perfect tropical getaway for those looking to avoid winter. With only an average winter low of 64, it's no surprise that Hawaii is one of the best cities for winter for those looking to trade their winter coats and scarves for bathing suits and flip flops.
Spend a day in the sand and surf on Waikiki Beach or stroll through the Hoʻomaluhia Botanical Garden. Want to check out some of the world's most beautiful street art? Head over to one of Honolulu's most beloved neighborhoods — Kakaako. Afterward, grab a coffee from Hawaiian Fresh Roast or lunch from O'Kims Korean Kitchen.
To fully appreciate Honolulu's spectacular winter weather, plan a balmy hike up its famous Diamond Head trail. With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu, the trail takes visitors to the edge of this 300,000-year-old crater. It's a must-see!
Las Vegas, NV
- Average 1-BR rent: $1,428
- Median home sale price: $395,000
- Population: 641,903
There's something for everyone in Las Vegas! Whether you're there for pleasure or business, Vegas boasts an average winter high of 61 degrees and an average winter low of 35 degrees — making it one of the best cities for winter escapes.
Stroll down the Las Vegas Strip and take in all the glitz and glam of this desert city. With casinos and attractions aplenty, the possibilities are endless. Or, to make the most of Vegas' lovely winter weather, head to the Red Rock Canyon. Just 15 miles west of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon offers a 13-mile scenic drive, 26 hiking trails and opportunities for rock climbing, horseback riding and mountain biking.
Looking to experience Vegas like a local? Swing by one of the four Blueberry Hill Restaurant for waffles. This local chain is family-owned and has been around since 1966. Additionally, make sure you grab an iced coffee from Mothership Coffee and leave time for soul food at Gritz Café.
San Francisco, CA
- Average 1-BR rent: $3,430
- Median home sale price: $1,325,000
- Population: 873,965
Of course, the Golden City would land on the best cities for winter list. With an average winter high of 58 degrees and an average winter low of 45, San Francisco is a bustling metropolis with a reputation for having a very mild winter.
Make the most of a winter day in San Francisco and head to Fort Funson. With 200-foot bluffs, visitors can hike, horseback ride and even hang glide. Additionally, check out the urban oasis at the Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve — a 61-acre open space reserve owned by UCSF. After working up an appetite, grab an arepa or two from Pica Pica or head to Southern Pacific Brewing for some beers in the sunshine.
End a perfect day of being outside in San Francisco by visiting the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture and popping into Radhaus, an alpine beer hall and restaurant. Or, take advantage of San Francisco's bustling cultural scene — see the San Francisco Symphony or visit the de Young museum.
San Diego, CA
- Average 1-BR rent: $2,696
- Median home sale price: $811,000
- Population: 1,386,932
With plenty of sunshine and an average winter high of 66 degrees, San Diego has a lot to offer with its beaches and endless attractions — making it one of the best cities for winter if you're a person who dislikes winter.
Looking to take in the salt air and sunshine? Head to the Waterfront Park. Leave some time to explore Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, it was the first mission established in California in 1769. And then, when you've worked up an appetite, head to the heart of the city — Old Town. Grab a margarita and some world-famous Mexican food at Cafe Coyote, an Old Town staple for the last 30 years.
To take in some of San Diego's most gorgeous sites, spend a day in the sun at Balboa Park. Home to more than 16 museums, performing arts venues, gardens, trails and even the San Diego Zoo, this 1,200-acre historic site is a must-see. Need more adventure? Hit the open sea on a whale-watching excursion. Whatever you do, remember to bring your SPF!
Miami, FL
- Average 1-BR rent: $3,074
- Median home sale price: $480,000
- Population: 442,241
It's no surprise that Miami would rank as one of the best cities for winter if you dislike winter — it's balmy year-round. With an average winter high of 76 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average winter low is 60 degrees, Miami knows how to bring the heat.
Make the most out of Miami during the winter and head to the Wynwood Walls to marvel at local street art while checking out more than 70 art galleries, shops, restaurants and bars. Afterward, swing by Sanguich for a world-renowned Cuban sandwich and pick up a coffee of your choice from Fincas Coffee.
Seeking some fun in the ocean? Book a bow fishing tour or plan a day trip to see the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park lighthouse. Want to live like a true local? Say cheers to the weekend at Café Bastille over bottomless mimosas and then, head out for a night of salsa dancing. Don't know how to salsa? Salsa Mia can show you the moves!
Austin, TX
- Average 1-BR rent: $1,512
- Median home sale price: $565,000
- Population: 961,855
Home to delicious Texas barbeque, honky tonks and quirky neighborhoods, Austin is one of the best cities for winter if you're looking for good times with moderate winter weather. With an average high of 63 degrees Fahrenheit during winter and an average low of 40 degrees, the weather here won't have any cowboys trading in their hats for winter wear.
To experience Austin like a local, start your day off with breakfast tacos from Veracruz All Natural. Then, head over to Zilker Park, better known as the "jewel in the heart of Austin." With over 351 acres, Zilker Park features a natural spring-fed swimming pool, sculptural gardens, stand-up paddleboarding and spectacular views of the Austin skyline.
When the sun goes down, take your pick of mouthwatering barbeque spots like InterStellar BBQ or Sam's Bar-B-Que. Afterward, head to one of Austin's famous honky tonks for some dancing and beers. The Little Long Horn Saloon, known as the "honkiest tonkiest beer joint in town," will have you saying yeehaw in no time.
Fresno, CA
- Average 1-BR rent: $1,339
- Median home sale price: $368,000
- Population: 542,107
Located in California's Central Valley, Fresno is one of the best cities for winter because of its ample sunshine and moderate temperatures. With an average winter high of 59 degrees, Fresno boasts with a year-round pleasant climate.
Want to spend a gorgeous winter day in Fresno? Visit the Shinzen Japanese Friendship Gardens. Located within Woodward Park, the Shinzen Garden was developed in 1967 and it's a must-see experience for anyone in Fresno. Afterward, head to Sumner Peck Ranch to pick your own citrus. From mid-January to mid-April, navel oranges, blood oranges, pomelos, Minneola tangelos, mandarins and lemons are just a tree branch away.
With one-fifth of total wine grapes grown in California coming from Fresno, you're going to want to experience the local grapes firsthand. Head to the Toca Madera Winery or the Engelmann Cellars for a proper wine tasting. When you've worked up an appetite, leave time to enjoy a meal at Annex Kitchen or Yosemite Ranch.
There's snow place like home
Feeling ready to give up your heavy coat, gloves, scarves and snow shovels for one of these sun-soaked best cities for winter cities? Perhaps it's time to move.
