This Is the Best Place to Live on the U.S. East Coast for Excellent Weather — and No, It's Not Florida

More than a third of the U.S. population calls the East Coast home, and it’s no wonder why. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Maine to Florida, this region is a vibrant blend of bustling urban centers and charming coastal towns. Recently, the East Coast’s appeal was highlighted in U.S. News’s report on the best places to live for excellent weather. While the top spots were dominated by California cities—with Santa Barbara claiming the crown—Charleston, South Carolina, stood out as the highest-ranking East Coast city at No. 8.

A Climate Made for Comfort

If warm, sunny days are a must for your next move, Charleston should top your list. The city boasts an enviable subtropical climate with few freezing days and a comfortable summer average of 81°F. Winters are mild too, hovering around 56°F. Charleston’s residents enjoy around 209 sunny days annually, offering plenty of opportunities to bask in the sun or explore the city’s outdoor charms.

That said, no place is perfect. Charleston does contend with a hurricane season that runs from June to November, bringing tropical storms and the occasional Category 1 or 2 hurricane. The city also experiences relatively high humidity levels, ranging from 50% to 90% depending on the season. Despite these challenges, Charleston’s overall climate remains one of its biggest draws.

A City That Has It All

Great weather is only part of Charleston’s allure. Known as the Holy City, it has been crowned Travel + Leisure’s Best City in the U.S. for an impressive 12 consecutive years. What makes Charleston such a standout? It’s a harmonious mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and a buzzing cultural scene.

The city’s award-winning dining scene offers everything from fresh seafood to innovative Southern cuisine. Its sun-drenched beaches, like Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, provide a perfect escape, while its cobblestone streets and historic homes make for picture-perfect strolls. Charleston also boasts a year-round calendar of activities, from art festivals to farmers' markets, ensuring there’s always something to do.

Thriving Economy and High Desirability

Charleston isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s an excellent place to call home. With a robust job market and an October unemployment rate of just 4.1%, the city offers promising opportunities for professionals. Its high desirability and quality of life helped it secure the 13th spot on U.S. News’s prestigious Best Places to Live in 2024-2025 list.

How Charleston Stacks Up

U.S. News didn’t just focus on sunny skies when ranking cities for weather. Analysts considered annual averages, general climate data, and the risks of extreme weather events using data from the National Weather Service and NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information. Despite its occasional brushes with hurricanes, Charleston’s favorable weather earned it a spot among the top 10—beating out New England’s Boston, which ranked 14th for those willing to brave colder winters.

A Shining Star Among Coastal Cities

While California cities like Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and Vallejo claimed the top three spots, Charleston shines as the East Coast’s crown jewel. For those seeking a blend of excellent weather, rich culture, and a thriving community, Charleston offers an irresistible combination. If you’re pondering your next move, this coastal gem just might be the perfect place to start your next chapter.

For the full ranking of the best cities to live in for great weather, visit usnews.com.