10 Hottest States in the U.S., Ranked by Average Temperature

Florida holds the top spot for hottest in the country. With its tropical climate in the south and humid subtropical climate in the north, the entire state experiences hot weather nearly year-round.

Cities like Miami and Tampa are known for their steamy summers and mild winters, making Florida a prime example of a heat-driven state.

The second-hottest state benefits from a tropical climate and ocean breezes that moderate temperatures across the islands. While the heat is more consistent than extreme, the humidity can be intense, especially during the summer months.

Louisiana combines high average temperatures with heavy humidity to create a muggy environment that's hard to beat. Its location along the Gulf of Mexico adds to the tropical feel. Cities like New Orleans experience long, hot summers and heavy rainfall.

Texas features a wide variety of climates, spanning arid deserts, humid coasts and everything in between. From Death Valley-level heat in the west to sweltering humidity in the east, the entire state bakes during the summer.

Georgia's humid subtropical climate produces hot, muggy summers and mild winters. Cities like Atlanta see both high temperatures and humidity levels that increase the heat index, making it feel even warmer.

Mississippi nearly ties with Georgia for average temperature. Its humid climate ensures hot summers that feel even hotter due to high humidity. Rainfall is common during the summer, adding to the sauna-like conditions.

With a humid subtropical climate, Alabama experiences long, hot summers. Cities like Montgomery and Birmingham get plenty of sunshine, frequent rain and high heat indexes.

Like its neighboring Southern states, South Carolina boasts hot summers and mild winters. The state experiences both extreme weather and persistent humidity, especially in coastal cities.

The ninth-hottest state has a desert climate, especially in cities like Phoenix and Tucson. Phoenix frequently hits triple digits (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) and has low humidity, offering a dry heat that’s still scorching.

Arkansas rounds out the list. It experiences hot, humid summers, a humid subtropical climate and occasional extreme weather events. Located in the South, its climate shares many traits with other states in the region.