If you’ve ever stepped outside and felt like you were swimming through the air, you’re not alone. High humidity can make even mild temperatures feel miserable. It clings to your skin, fogs your windows, and can even mess with your sleep.
But good news, some states are naturally dry. Think wide-open skies, desert landscapes, and air that doesn’t stick to your clothes. If you’re wondering what state has low humidity, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re thinking of moving for comfort, health, or just to escape the daily frizz, this guide breaks down the best dry spots in the U.S. And if you’re selling a home in one of those sticky states?
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What State Has Low Humidity
- Why Humidity Levels Matter More Than You Think
- The Science Behind Humidity Levels
- 10 States With the Lowest Humidity in the U.S.
- Best Low-Humidity Cities for Comfort and Clean Air
- How Seasons and Geography Impact Dry States
- Reilly’s Two Cents: Dry Air Is a Dream, But It Comes With a Catch
- Say Goodbye to Sticky Air
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Humidity Levels Matter More Than You Think
Humidity isn’t just about frizzy hair or sticky shirts. It can actually change how you feel, head to toe. When there’s too much moisture in the air, your body can’t cool itself down as easily. That’s why 85°F in Florida feels worse than 100°F in Arizona.
Dry air, on the other hand, can feel like a breath of fresh relief. You’re not sweating just sitting still, your sheets stay cool at night, and your skin might even feel a bit less oily.
But too little humidity has downsides, too. Dry skin, scratchy throats, and even cracked furniture can show up in super arid climates. The key is balance, and knowing which states come closest to that sweet spot.
The Science Behind Humidity Levels
Humidity measures the amount of water vapor in the air. The most common way we track it is with relative humidity (RH), a percentage that compares how much moisture the air is holding to how much it can hold at a given temperature.
Warm air holds more water vapor than cool air. So when RH is high, the air feels heavy and damp because it’s nearing its maximum capacity. At 100%, it’s fully saturated, which often leads to fog, sweat that doesn’t evaporate, and general discomfort.
In contrast, arid or desert climates often show much lower RH because the air holds little moisture. High elevation can also reduce humidity, since cooler temperatures limit how much vapor the air can carry. That’s why places like Utah or Colorado feel drier even on warm days.
10 States With the Lowest Humidity in the U.S.
If you’re hoping to escape high humidity, certain U.S. states consistently offer drier air. These places have desert landscapes, higher elevations, or are far from moisture-heavy bodies like the Gulf of Mexico. Here’s a closer look at the top ten:
- Arizona – With a dry desert climate and average annual relative humidity around 38%, Arizona is one of the driest states in the country. Cities like Phoenix and Tucson stay dry even during summer.
- Nevada – Known for being the driest state overall, Nevada sees very little rainfall and humidity. Las Vegas averages around 30% relative humidity, making it ideal for those sensitive to moisture.
- New Mexico – Its high elevation and arid conditions keep humidity low, especially in areas like Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The air feels cooler and lighter year-round.
- Utah – Featuring both desert and mountainous regions, Utah averages under 50% RH. The dry air is common across cities like Salt Lake City and St. George.
- Colorado – With elevation playing a major role, cities like Denver and Colorado Springs maintain low humidity levels. This state’s climate is a blend of dry air and seasonal snow.
- Wyoming – Cool temperatures and open plains keep moisture levels down. Humidity averages stay in the 50% range or lower depending on the season.
- Montana – While winters bring snow, the air is generally dry throughout the year. Central and eastern Montana tend to be the driest.
- Idaho – Especially in southern regions like Boise, Idaho enjoys a semi-arid climate with manageable humidity and over 200 sunny days a year.
- California – Inland parts of the state, including areas like Fresno and Palm Springs, are very dry. Coastal zones may be humid, but the interior tells a different story.
- Texas – Though the eastern side near the Gulf is humid, western cities like El Paso and Midland are situated in desert regions with consistently low RH.
These states offer not just dry air, but also fewer allergens, reduced mold growth, and more breathable living, benefits especially appreciated by those with respiratory issues or a preference for arid climates.
Best Low-Humidity Cities for Comfort and Clean Air
Even within dry states, some cities stand out for having particularly comfortable and clean air. These places combine low relative humidity with perks like high elevation, good airflow, and minimal pollution:
- Las Vegas, Nevada – With desert surroundings and average RH under 30%, Vegas offers year-round dry conditions. Its location also limits allergens like mold and dust mites.
- Tucson, Arizona – Tucson sits in the Sonoran Desert and averages around 25% relative humidity. Warm days and cool nights make it a top pick for dry air lovers.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico – At 7,000 feet above sea level, Santa Fe stays dry and cool. It’s known for clean air and plenty of sunshine.
- St. George, Utah – This southern Utah city is warm, dry, and growing fast. It pairs desert conditions with mountain views.
- Denver, Colorado – Thanks to its mile-high elevation, Denver enjoys a semi-arid climate. Humidity stays low, even during summer.
- Boise, Idaho – Boise blends a dry climate with mild winters. Its inland location helps it avoid moisture from the Pacific or the Gulf.
These cities offer more than just dry air, they also support a healthy lifestyle. Clear skies, low mold risk, and fewer allergens are everyday perks in these areas.
How Seasons and Geography Impact Dry States
Humidity isn’t the same all year, even in dry states. Geography and seasonal changes can shift how much moisture is in the air, and it’s good to know what to expect before making a move.
States near the Gulf of Mexico, like Louisiana or Florida, often stay humid year-round. Warm ocean air pushes inland, raising the humidity even during cooler months. On the other hand, states with desert climates or higher elevations, like New Mexico or Colorado, stay drier because there’s less moisture to begin with.
Even within dry states, seasons play a role. For example, the monsoon season in Arizona brings a temporary spike in humidity during summer, while winters stay extremely dry. Elevation also matters: places like Denver feel drier because cooler air holds less moisture, the maximum amount of water vapor air can carry drops with temperature.
In short, it’s not just the state you choose, but also the city, season, and elevation that determine your comfort.
Reilly’s Two Cents: Dry Air Is a Dream, But It Comes With a Catch
I’ve sold homes in Florida where the humidity hits you like a wall the second you open the door. While I haven’t worked in states like Arizona or Colorado, I’ve talked with plenty of people who moved to those places just to escape the sticky air. They all say the same thing, dry climates feel better, sleep better, and smell better.
That said, switching from high humidity to dry air takes some adjusting. If you’re moving from a damp climate, start by prepping your home for sale. Use dehumidifiers to cut down on moisture, especially in basements and bathrooms. It not only improves comfort, it helps avoid mold or musty smells during showings.
Once you’re living in an arid place, there are a few things to keep in mind. Dry air can cause dry skin, nosebleeds, and even damage wood furniture. A small humidifier goes a long way. And drink more water than you think you need, dry air pulls moisture right out of you.
Moving to a dry state can absolutely boost your comfort and lifestyle. Just go in with the right prep and expectations.
Say Goodbye to Sticky Air
If you’re tired of the sticky air and constant sweating, you’re not alone. Many people are trading in high humidity for the clean, dry feel of desert or mountain states. Places like Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado aren’t just dry, they offer clear skies, better sleep, and fewer moisture-related home issues.
Before you move, think about your comfort, health needs, and lifestyle. Humidity levels are just one piece of the puzzle, but they can make a big difference in how you feel every day.
Thinking about a move? Let iBuyer.com help you sell your current home fast, with no showings, no waiting, and a fair cash offer backed by real data.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Low humidity typically means relative humidity under 40%. Most people feel most comfortable when humidity ranges between 30% and 50%.
It depends. Dry climates can be better for asthma, mold allergies, and joint pain, but may cause dry skin and sinuses. Humid climates may help with skin hydration but can feel uncomfortable and trigger mold issues.
Nevada is often ranked as the driest state in the country, with consistently low relative humidity across all seasons.
Yes. Dry air can cause wood floors and furniture to crack or shrink. On the other hand, it also reduces mold, mildew, and pest issues that thrive in damp environments.
Yes. Too little moisture can dry out your skin, eyes, and throat. Many people in arid climates use humidifiers indoors to stay comfortable.
Reilly Dzurick is a seasoned real estate agent at Get Land Florida, bringing over six years of industry experience to the vibrant Vero Beach market. She is known for her deep understanding of local real estate trends and her dedication to helping clients find their dream properties. Reilly’s journey in real estate is complemented by her academic background in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication from the University of North Florida.
