The 5 Least Humid States In The U.S.: Where to Move (2024)

Humidity — the very word conjures up images of sweat-drenched days and sleepless nights. While the United States may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of high humidity, it certainly punches above its weight thanks to states like Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi and Hawaii. So let’s talk about the least humid states.

But why does high humidity make us so uncomfortable, anyway? High humidity means that there is a large amount of moisture in the air. Under normal circ*mstances, the human body relies on evaporation to whisk away perspiration on the skin, allowing the body to cool itself and regulate internal temperatures.

However, under high humidity conditions, sweat accumulates rather than evaporates on the skin, disrupting the body’s cooling process and potentially triggering the onset of hyperthermia. Left untreated, hyperthermia can cause fatigue, dehydration, headaches, and heat stroke. In extreme cases, prolonged high humidity can be fatal, especially for vulnerable elderly or immunocompromised populations.

As a serious health consideration and all-round detriment to your quality of life, high humidity is definitely something you should keep in mind if you’re thinking of moving to a new state. This is doubly true if you’re nearing retirement age. We’ve put together a brief breakdown of 5 of the best least humid states in the country.

1. Nevada

Unsurprisingly, the first entry on this list is a state famous for its arid climate and desert-like environment. With average relative humidity sitting at 38.3%, Nevada has the lowest relative humidity (when comparing states) in the country. To give you an idea of what this statistic means in context, consider that relative humidity in Florida and Louisiana is 74.5% and 74% respectively.

But just because Nevada is one of a few least humid states doesn’t mean that’s the only reason to come. If you’re considering Nevada as a retirement destination, you’ll be happy to hear that the state has some of the lowest property taxes in the country. Perhaps more importantly, Nevada does not maintain an income tax, meaning that your social security payments and/or retirement account income can be accessed tax-free.

2. Wyoming

At 57.1% relative humidity, Wyoming is slightly more humid than desert states like Nevada. Luckily, that still puts it within the optimal human comfort range of 30% to 65% humidity. Besides, the slight gain in humidity is more than worth it when you consider Wyoming’s spectacular natural landscapes. An outdoor adventurer’s paradise, Wyoming contains no less than three iconic national parks: Grand Teton, Bighorn Canyon, and last but not least, Yellowstone National Park.

Like Nevada, Wyoming has become an increasingly popular retirement destination, with retirees citing the low humidity, sunny climate, and spectacular natural environment as major incentives for moving.

3. Arizona

If you enjoy a hot, sunny climate, Arizona is the place for you. The second lowest humidity reading on this list, Arizona’s relative humidity usually sits in the 38.5% to 39.5% range.

If you buy a house in Phoenix or somewhere else in south-central Arizona, you can look forward to an even lower (~36%) humidity range. On that note, it’s worth mentioning that Phoenix is one of the country’s most affordable capital cities, with a median home value of $242,600 and a median listing price of $285,000.

Best known for the mighty Grand Canyon, Arizona is also home to a variety of other natural wonders, from the picturesque sites of the Colorado Plateau to the enchanting trails of Petrified Forest National Park.

4. Montana

Renowned for its majestic mountain ranges and rolling prairie regions, Montana is an ideal destination for retirees or outdoor adventurers looking for least humid states and untouched natural beauty. With a relative humidity of 60.4%, Montana is a touch more humid than states like Nevada and Arizona.

Montana’s slightly higher humidity is partly caused by the thousands of lakes, rivers, and creeks which crisscross the state’s interior. With drainage basins to the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, and Hudson Bay, Montana is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, swimmers, divers, kayakers, sailors and jet skiers.

If you’re ready to buy in Montana, keep in mind that the state has been the subject of a lot of attention from buyers in recent years. For now, Montana’s property market remains viable (if a little on the expensive side), with median selling prices jumping from $320,000 in 2020 to $390,000 in 2022.

5. Colorado

Widely regarded as one of the most liveable states in the country, Colorado’s humidity typically fluctuates in the very comfortable 52% to 54% range. Besides very pleasant humidity levels, moving to Colorado will also give you access to excellent employment prospects and idyllic natural landscapes like the Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center.

Another big advantage of living in Colorado is the state’s health-oriented culture. Fitness, organic foods, and outdoor adventuring are highly respected by Colorado residents. If you’re a retiree looking to maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle, moving to Colorado is a no-brainer.

Like Montana, Colorado’s housing market has experienced a sharp uptick in buying pressure over the last 2 years. In fact, as demand continues to outstrip inventory, Colorado’s average home price has soared beyond $398,000. With a seller’s market brewing across the state, you might need to get in touch with a good agent to find an affordable home in Colorado.

Ready to Move? UpNest Can Help!

If you’re ready to buy a home in any of the states listed above, the logical next step is to connect with a full-service, local real estate agent. When you buy through UpNest, you’ll be able to select from our curated pool of high-performing agents.

The UpNest partner agent network extends across the country, meaning you’ll be able to compare and interview top-rated agents in Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, or any other of the least humid states. Once you’ve partnered with an UpNest network agent, they’ll be there to guide you through every stage of the buying process, from nailing down your ideal neighborhood to delivering your offer on competitive listings.

Finally, buyers using UpNest, which is owned by parent company Realtor.com, may also be eligible for a wide range of unique cost savings. Thanks to UpNest’s exclusive Agent Commission Refund, you can save up an average of $3,0000 in buyer rebates.