The World’s 7 Coldest Cities
As summer brings heat, we long for winter, and when winter arrives, we yearn for summer—it’s just human nature. Lately, I’ve been thinking about winter often, picturing frosty breath in the air and people hurrying along, bundled up against the cold. It feels like a brief escape from the relentless heat. This got me wondering: which cities are the coldest in the world? Today, let’s explore the top 7 coldest cities—not countries, but cities.
7. Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan
Coming in at number 7 is Nur-Sultan, the capital of Kazakhstan. Renamed in March 2019 to honor the country’s long-serving president, Nursultan Nazarbayev, this city is known for its unique architecture and numerous shopping centers, making it a great destination for tourists. However, with an average January temperature of 6.4°F (-14.2°C), winter visits are best avoided.
6. International Falls, Minnesota, United States
Located in northern Minnesota, this state proudly calls itself the “Icebox” for good reason. International Falls is particularly frigid, with January lows reaching about -54.4°F (-48°C). Snowfall is also substantial, matching the extreme cold. As a result, winter activities are well-developed here. Voyageurs National Park hosts annual cross-country skiing and ice fishing competitions, drawing enthusiasts to the area.
5. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Situated at an elevation of 4,429 feet (1,350 m), Ulaanbaatar ranks as the fifth coldest city in the world. Its average January temperature is around -11.2°F (-24°C), with extreme lows dropping to -43.6°F (-42°C). While famous for its harsh winters, Ulaanbaatar is also renowned for its wild landscapes, Tibetan-style temples, and modern art galleries, making it a compelling tourist destination.
4. Barrow, United States
Located in Alaska’s Arctic Circle, Barrow (Utqiaġvik) is the northernmost city in the United States. It has the lowest average temperature among all Alaskan cities and can experience winds up to 60 mph (96 km/h). Despite the cold, Barrow attracts many visitors for its Inupiat culture, stunning tundra landscapes, and the chance to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The average January temperature is -13°F (-25°C), with a record low of -56.2°F (-49°C).
3. Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, takes the third spot. Located about 250 miles (400 km) south of the Arctic Circle, it boasts some of the most extreme weather among Canada’s 100 largest cities. January’s average temperature is -18.2°F (-27.9°C), yet in summer, Yellowknife is known as one of Canada’s sunniest cities.
2. Norilsk, Russia
Home to about 100,000 people, Norilsk is the northernmost city in the world. Its average January temperature is -22°F (-30°C), with lows plunging to -63.4°F (-53°C). The city features cultural attractions like museums and art galleries and draws tourists for its unique northern location. However, environmental damage from tourism has led to restricted access in recent years.
1. Yakutsk, Russia
The coldest city in the world is Yakutsk, Russia, located about 280 miles (450 km) south of the Arctic Circle. January’s average temperature exceeds -40°F (-40°C). The cold is so severe that heavy snow can lead to school closures and prevent planes from taking off or landing. Some vehicles must keep their engines running to avoid freezing. Despite this, Yakutsk boasts attractions like an ice museum, a Christian market, and the Sakha Republic National Art Gallery.
Reflecting on these frigid cities reminds me of my college days. My English conversation professor, who was from Canada, would go out in the dead of winter wearing just a light jacket. When I asked if he wasn’t cold, he said it felt like spring weather in Canada. I always thought South Korea’s hot summers and cold winters were intense, but what kind of cold must Canada have? It makes me want to plan a winter trip to experience it myself!