What state has had the most snow?

Posted in USA January 23, 2018 by Sophie Boudreau

When it comes to the winter months, plenty of states face the realities of brutally cold, snowy conditions. After all, the vast majority of our country is situated within non-tropical climates — and we’re well-accustomed to the chilly conditions that accompany wintertime in much of the United States. Here are the 11 states with the highest average annual snowfalls (calculated among all cities) between 1981 and 2010, according to a study by National Centers for Environmental Information.

1. New York

Much of New York’s snowy weather is concentrated around the city of Syracuse, which sees an average of 66 snowy days each winter. On average, New Yorkers can expect to experience over 120 inches of snow annually. Talk about an arctic blast!

2. Wyoming

Wyoming is next on the list, with an average annual snowfall of approximately 90 inches. While its average for snowy days is lower at just 36, its precipitation accumulates quickly. Be sure to invest in some quality gloves and scarves if you’re venturing to Wyoming this season!

3. Vermont

If you’re not a fan of cold, snowy weather, you probably shouldn’t relocate to Vermont! This small but beautiful state experiences about 80 inches of snowfall annually, with 54 days of active precipitation during the winter months. Bundle up!

4. Alaska

It’s a no-brainer that Alaska belongs on this list, though we’re surprised that it doesn’t sit at number one! Alaska, with its beautiful mountains and chilly seas, sees snowfall approximately 48 days per year. The state accumulates approximately 74 inches on an annual basis.

5. West Virginia

West Virginia’s snowiest city is Beckley, with an average of 62 inches of snowfall recorded each year between 1981 and 2010. On average, this snowfall was spread out over the course of 37 active precipitation days.

6. Maine

Maine is next on the list, with an average snowfall amount of 61 inches during the years recorded in this study. If you’re considering a move to Maine, be prepared to experience significant snowfall for approximately 27 days out of every calendar year.

7. New Hampshire

Another snowy east coast destination should come as no surprise to most Americans. With nearly 30 days of active snowfall on average each year and an average accumulation of just over 60 inches, New Hampshire is a fantastic spot for snow enthusiasts of all ages.

8. Utah

Moving westward from New Hampshire, Utah takes the next spot on our list of the snowiest states in America. With the heaviest snowfall concentrated near Salt Lake City, Utah’s average accumulated amount sits at 56.2 inches. The state sees about 34 days of snowfall annually.

9. Minnesota

Ah, Minnesota: we aren’t surprised to see you on this list! Minnesotans can attest to the fact that their state turns into a winter wonderland each year, with an average snowfall amount of 54 inches. On average, this accumulation happens over the course of about 37 active precipitation days.

10. North Dakota

Pull out your warmest hat and lace up your fleece-lined boots before venturing to North Dakota, which sees an average of 45 snowy days each year. In terms of accumulation, the state receives about 51 inches each year. Brr… don’t spend too much time outside!

11. Michigan

Oh, Michigan. With plenty of lake effect snow from the shores of the Great Lakes, we’re not shocked to see you rounding out our list. Communities in the Great Lakes State received an annual average snowfall amount of 50 inches during this study’s recorded years.

Did your home state make the list? Have you ever experienced a brutal winter in one of these destinations? Share your experiences with us in the comment section below!

Of the 51 largest American cities, two are shovelling far more snow than any of the rest. Rochester, New York gets the most snow among major cities in the United States, with a yearly average of over 100 inches (over 255 centimetres). Nearly eight feet of snow also buries nearby Buffalo in a typical year.

The third-ranking major US city for snow doesn't even come close to Buffalo and Rochester. Compared with the northern New York state cities, Cleveland, Ohio receives just two-thirds the amount of snow. For 16 of the 51 largest US cities, the annual snowfall normally adds up to over two feet (60 centimetres).

Major cities included in these snowfall rankings represent the 51 metropolitan areas in the United States with the biggest populations, all those with over one million people in 2010, according to the US Census Bureau. A complete list of America's 51 largest urban centers is available here.

There are some smaller cities that get even more snow than Rochester. Most notable is Syracuse New York with an average of 128 inches of snow a year, and Erie Pennsylvania which receives 104 inches of snow annually.

The snowfall totals are averages based on weather data collected from 1991 to 2020 for the NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. You can also view a summary of snow averages for all major US cities and recent snowfall amounts.

City links take you to more detailed information on snowfall, snowstorms and snow accumulation for that location.

These major US cities receive at least 0.1 inches (0.25 centimetres) of new snow for an average of 25 days or more a year.