Top 7 Coldest Cities In The World In 2023
There are certain areas on Earth where the temperature can drop to crazy extremes, but for the majority of people, a cold front in winter means wrapping up with an additional garment. Fortunately, most winters aren't nearly as harsh as the bone-chilling -90 F/-68 C temperature of the isolated settlement of Oymyakon in Russian Siberia, which is often referred to as the world's coldest city. According to Guinness World Records, the village became the most permanently populated human community when temperatures reached an all-time low in 1933.
1. Yakutsk, Russia:
Yakutsk, the capital of Russia's Sakha Republic, stands as a testament to extreme cold. Located about 280 miles south of the Arctic Circle, this city boasts an average January temperature of -41°F (-40°C), making it one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Despite the frigid climate, Yakutsk offers attractions like the Permafrost Kingdom ice museum and the National Art Museum of the Republic of Sakha. Surprisingly, it becomes a more hospitable destination in July with average temperatures of 67°F (19.5°C).
2. Norilsk, Russia:
Nestled in the continuous permafrost zone, Norilsk ranks as the most northerly city with over 100,000 residents. It holds the title for the coldest mean annual temperature of any major city, with average January temperatures plummeting to -22°F (-30°C). Unfortunately, Norilsk's fame is accompanied by environmental concerns, as the mining industry has made it one of the most polluted places on the planet. Additionally, it has been closed to foreigners since 2001.
3. Yellowknife, Canada:
As the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories, Yellowknife embraces its status as the coldest year-round city among 100 surveyed Canadian cities. With an average January temperature of -18.2°F (-27.9°C), it lives up to its chilly reputation. However, Yellowknife's appeal lies not only in its extreme cold but also in its rich gold-rush history and vibrant summer activities, including hiking, dog-sledding, and northern lights viewing.
4. Barrow, United States:
Barrow, located above the Arctic Circle in Alaska, holds the distinction of being the northernmost city in the United States. With average January temperatures at -13°F (-25°C), it's subject to intense cold and long periods of darkness. Despite these challenges, Barrow's Iñupiat culture and the natural beauty of its tundra surroundings attract visitors. The opportunity to witness the mesmerizing northern lights adds to its allure.
5. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia:
Perched at an elevation of 4,430 feet on Mongolia's steppes, Ulaanbaatar earns the title of the world's coldest national capital. Although it experiences extreme seasons with highs of 102°F (39°C) in summer, its long winter months see temperatures plunge to lows of -44°F (-42°C). Beyond its cold climate, Ulaanbaatar showcases rich cultural sights, including Buddhist temples and modern art galleries, making it a unique destination.
6. International Falls, Minnesota, United States:
Dubbed "The Icebox of the Nation," International Falls in northern Minnesota lives up to its reputation with average January temperatures at 4.4°F (-15°C). Notable for its extreme cold, the city also receives significant snowfall and boasts some of the most days with freezing temperatures in the contiguous U.S. The city serves as a gateway to Voyageurs National Park, offering year-round outdoor activities.
7. Astana, Kazakhstan:
Defined by futuristic architecture and vibrant entertainment centers, Astana stands out as a modern city in Kazakhstan. While summer months bring warmth, the winters are long, dry, and bitterly cold. The city's average January temperature of 6.4°F (-14.2°C) is complemented by occasional extreme lows of -61°F (-51.5°C). The frozen river, which often remains ice-covered from mid-November to early April, contributes to Astana's reputation as one of the coldest cities globally.
