The 10 Coldest Cities in Nevada – Enjoy Mild Temperatures
We looked through all the climate data and recent weather trends to identify the coldest cities in Nevada so you know where you can cool off when the sweltering Nevada sun starts to cook you.
These coldest places in Nevada stand as frosty retreats against the heat where you can escape from the scorching summer temperatures.
Table of Contents
Methodology
To create our list of the coldest places in Nevada, we examined a wealth of climate data, focusing on recent temperature trends and forecasts for the future. We analyzed historical temperature records, average snowfall, and seasonal variations to ensure our findings are both accurate and insightful.
Through this research, we gathered enough information to paint a clear picture of each city’s chilly character, while also providing tips for residents on how to stay cool during the warmer months.
#10. Elko, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 87°F
Average Annual Temperature: 48°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 37°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 20 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Elko’s higher elevation and proximity to the Ruby Mountains contribute to its cooler climate, making it a refreshing retreat compared to the hotter valleys in Nevada.
To escape the summer heat, residents often find respite at local lakes, enjoying leisurely swims or relaxing in shaded areas. Air-conditioned cafes provide a perfect place to sip iced drinks while cooling off.
#9. Winnemucca, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 89°F
Average Annual Temperature: 50°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 38°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 12 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Winnemucca enjoys a cooler climate due to its location in the Humboldt River Valley, which provides some relief from the scorching desert heat.
During the summer, residents flock to local pools to cool off and often gather in nearby parks for picnics, where they enjoy refreshing beverages in the shade of trees.
#8. Sparks, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 91°F
Average Annual Temperature: 54°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 41°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 17 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Sparks benefits from its proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains, which create a cooler microclimate compared to the more arid regions of Nevada.
To beat the summer heat, residents enjoy local water parks and community pools, while ice cream shops become popular stops for sweet, cold treats on hot days.
#7. Carson City, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 85°F
Average Annual Temperature: 52°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 39°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 18 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Carson City’s elevation of over 4,800 feet makes it cooler than many other areas in Nevada, with the surrounding mountains providing a buffer against the intense summer heat.
During warm months, residents take advantage of nearby lakes for swimming and boating, while parks offer shaded spots for relaxing and enjoying chilled drinks.
#6. North Las Vegas, Nevada (Lake Mead)
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 99°F
Average Annual Temperature: 64°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 58°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 4 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
While North Las Vegas can get quite hot, its location near the cooler Lake Mead and surrounding mountains allows for some temperature moderation, particularly in the evenings.
To cool off, residents flock to local water parks or enjoy ice-cold drinks at cafes, making the most of the warm nights with outdoor gatherings.
#5. Reno, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 92°F
Average Annual Temperature: 53°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 40°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 20 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Reno enjoys a cooler climate due to its elevation of about 4,500 feet and its proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains. To stay cool in the summer, locals flock to parks for picnics and swimming pools for refreshing dips, which makes Reno one of the coldest cities in Nevada that offers many activities around the city as well.
The abundance of ice cream parlors also ensures everyone has a sweet way to beat the heat.
#4. Tonopah, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 93°F
Average Annual Temperature: 47°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 38°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 19 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Tonopah benefits from its higher elevation, making it cooler than many lower-lying areas in Nevada. During the summer, residents cool off at local swimming holes or enjoy refreshing barbecues in shaded areas.
The town also hosts events where everyone can enjoy ice-cold drinks and treats.
#3. Battle Mountain, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 88°F
Average Annual Temperature: 46°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 36°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 22 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Battle Mountain’s elevation and unique geographical features help maintain cooler temperatures throughout the year. To beat the summer heat, residents head to local lakes for fishing or swimming.
Many also enjoy picnics in the shade, accompanied by chilled beverages to keep cool.
#2. Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 82°F
Average Annual Temperature: 50°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 39°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 300 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Lake Tahoe’s high elevation, combined with its expansive water body, creates a cooler microclimate compared to the rest of the state. In the summer, locals and visitors dive into the lake’s clear waters, enjoying swimming, paddleboarding, and sunbathing on the beaches.
Ice cream stands and outdoor cafes flourish, providing plenty of cold treats to help everyone stay cool, making it one the coldest places in Nevada where there are many things to do during the summer as well.
#1. Ely, Nevada
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 85°F
Average Annual Temperature: 47°F
Average High Temperature in the Winter: 35°F
Average Inches of Snowfall per Year: 30 inches
Location: Check on Google Maps
Ely’s elevation and proximity to the Great Basin National Park contribute to its cooler average temperatures, which also makes it the coldest city in Nevada.
In the summer, residents find comfort in the nearby hot springs, enjoying the contrast of warm water amidst the summer heat.
They also gather at local swimming pools and outdoor festivals featuring cool refreshments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the coldest city in Nevada?
The coldest city in Nevada is Ely, recognized for its heavy snowfall and frigid winters.
Which city has the most snowfall in Nevada?
Lake Tahoe also boasts the highest snowfall in Nevada, averaging around 300 inches each year.
How can residents cool off during the winter?
Residents often enjoy local hot springs, warm cafes, and community gatherings to stay warm during the cold months.
What contributes to the cold temperatures in these cities?
Geographical elevation and specific climate patterns play significant roles in the chilly temperatures experienced in these coldest places in Nevada.