As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, certain areas are emerging as safer harbors—known as “climate havens.”
These regions are expected to remain relatively unscathed by the severe impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts.
Climate havens are becoming increasingly attractive to those looking to relocate for a safer future. In this post, we explore what makes a place a climate haven and list some top climate havens in the USA and around the world.
What is a Climate Haven?
A climate haven is a city or region projected to experience fewer and less severe impacts from climate change compared to other parts of the world. These locations combine favorable geography, stable weather patterns, and strong social and economic systems to offer relative safety, livability, and long-term resilience in a warming world.
While no place is entirely immune to climate disruption, climate havens are expected to remain habitable, resource-secure, and economically viable even as rising temperatures, sea-level increases, and extreme weather events intensify elsewhere.
What Data Points Go Into Calculating a Climate Haven
Experts from organizations such as NOAA, FEMA, and the USDA use a range of environmental, economic, and infrastructure indicators to identify climate-resilient regions.
The most common data points include:
Environmental Indicators
- Temperature Stability – Historical and projected average temperature increases (NOAA Climate Normals).
- Precipitation and Water Security – Access to freshwater resources such as aquifers, lakes, and rainfall balance.
- Natural Disaster Frequency – FEMA disaster declarations for floods, fires, hurricanes, and droughts.
- Air Quality Index (AQI) – Annual air pollution levels and wildfire smoke exposure days.
- Sea-Level Rise Risk – Distance from coasts and elevation above sea level.
- Heatwave Exposure – Number of days exceeding 90°F per year, current and projected.
Infrastructure and Urban Resilience
- Green Infrastructure – Tree canopy coverage, flood management, and sustainable stormwater systems.
- Renewable Energy Adoption – Citywide transition to wind, solar, or hydroelectric energy sources.
- Public Health and Emergency Preparedness – Access to healthcare, shelters, and community readiness plans.
- Transportation Resilience – Electrified transit systems and low-carbon mobility infrastructure.
Socioeconomic Factors
- Economic Stability – Employment diversity, cost of living, and GDP growth.
- Population Density – Manageable density allowing for scalable growth.
- Education and Research Institutions – Local universities driving sustainability innovation.
- Policy and Governance – City-level climate adaptation and emissions reduction plans.
- Community Engagement – Active local participation in resilience and sustainability initiatives.
Northeast Climate Havens
(Vermont, Maine, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut)
The Northeast is one of the safest long-term regions in North America for climate adaptation. Abundant freshwater from the Great Lakes and rivers, moderate seasonal weather, and proactive state policies make it ideal for sustainable living.
Burlington, Vermont
Why? Burlington runs entirely on renewable electricity and sits along Lake Champlain, ensuring reliable water access and a moderate climate. The city’s strong civic culture, energy efficiency programs, and focus on local food resilience make it one of America’s most sustainable small cities.
Portland, Maine
Why? Portland enjoys a northern coastal position with minimal hurricane exposure. The city’s focus on renewable energy, fisheries protection, and clean transportation has positioned it as a model of coastal resilience.
Albany, New York
Why? Albany’s inland location protects it from sea-level rise, and its strong governance drives ambitious climate policy. The city is expanding green jobs, electrified transit, and sustainable housing under New York’s Climate Leadership Act.
Rochester, New York
Why? Situated on Lake Ontario, Rochester combines reliable water access with a growing clean-tech economy. Its redevelopment projects focus on renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, and downtown resilience.
Syracuse, New York
Why? Syracuse’s proximity to freshwater and its emerging clean energy industries make it a Great Lakes leader. The city’s resilience initiatives focus on housing electrification, green jobs, and equitable community development.
Buffalo, New York
Why? Buffalo’s revitalized waterfront and moderate climate make it a future refuge. Access to Lake Erie ensures freshwater security, while public investments in green buildings and affordable housing attract climate-conscious residents.
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Why? With its higher elevation and low disaster frequency, Scranton provides stability and affordability. The city’s shift from coal to clean energy represents a new chapter of resilience and regional revitalization.
Erie, Pennsylvania
Why? Erie benefits from Lake Erie’s cooling effects and steady water access. Its Cool City plan and sustainable waterfront redevelopment aim to reduce heat and improve public access to green spaces.
Hartford, Connecticut
Why? Hartford’s inland geography shields it from flooding while supporting a thriving insurance and green finance sector. The city’s Climate Stewardship Initiative promotes energy efficiency and flood resilience.
State College, Pennsylvania
Why? Anchored by Penn State University, State College combines a stable climate with world-class research in renewable energy and agriculture. Local planning focuses on green building and public health resilience.
Midwest Climate Havens
(Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois)
The Midwest is emerging as America’s “Climate Safety Belt.” With vast freshwater reserves, fertile land, and low disaster risk, it offers a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Why? Ann Arbor’s A2Zero plan targets carbon neutrality by 2030. The city’s proximity to the Great Lakes and deep academic innovation ecosystem make it one of the most forward-thinking climate havens in the U.S.
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Why? Grand Rapids is known for its green building leadership and renewable hydropower. The city’s focus on sustainable business and clean energy has earned it recognition as one of America’s most livable mid-sized cities.
Lansing, Michigan
Why? As Michigan’s capital, Lansing has a stable government-driven economy and access to Great Lakes water systems. The city is expanding EV manufacturing and renewable power, strengthening its future readiness.
Traverse City, Michigan
Why? Located on Lake Michigan, Traverse City enjoys moderate summers, freshwater security, and a strong local food and tourism economy built around sustainability.
Madison, Wisconsin
Why? Madison’s lakes, bike paths, and renewable programs create a resilient urban ecosystem. Its climate action plan focuses on carbon neutrality and lake preservation.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Why? Milwaukee’s access to Lake Michigan keeps it cool and water-secure. The city’s Green Infrastructure Plan captures millions of gallons of stormwater each year to mitigate flooding and heat.
Duluth, Minnesota
Why? Duluth’s position on Lake Superior offers abundant freshwater and cooler weather. The city’s renewable transition and community planning efforts make it one of the most frequently cited U.S. climate refuges.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Why? Minneapolis is investing in electrified public transit, green rooftops, and community-owned energy. Its strong governance and water resources make it a model of northern sustainability.
Cleveland, Ohio
Why? Cleveland’s Great Lakes access ensures freshwater stability. Its renewable energy initiatives, particularly offshore wind, position it as a comeback city built on sustainability.
Toledo, Ohio
Why? Toledo’s location on Lake Erie and its solar manufacturing legacy make it a leading green energy hub. The city is restoring wetlands and investing in sustainable housing to improve resilience.
South Bend, Indiana
Why? South Bend’s Smart Sewer project has become a national model for urban water management. Its adaptive infrastructure and climate plan support safe, sustainable growth.
Bloomington, Indiana
Why? Home to Indiana University, Bloomington integrates sustainability into every aspect of governance — from renewable power to waste reduction and sustainable transit.
Appalachian & Mid-Atlantic Climate Havens
(North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland)
Protected by mountain ranges and rich biodiversity, this corridor blends ecological security with cultural vibrancy.
Asheville, North Carolina
Why? Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville avoids coastal flooding and hurricanes. The city is building climate resilience through local food systems, watershed protection, and sustainable tourism.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Why? Pittsburgh’s post-industrial transformation centers on green innovation. The city’s Resilient Pittsburgh strategy includes renewable energy adoption, reforestation, and clean technology investment.
Fayetteville, Arkansas
(Transitional South)
Why? Fayetteville’s moderate climate, university-driven sustainability culture, and low disaster exposure make it an emerging southern climate haven. Its Climate Action Plan targets net-zero emissions by 2050.
Great Plains & Heartland Climate Havens
(Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, Dakotas)
These central states are buffered from coastal and wildfire risks and are becoming prime regions for climate-adaptive living.
Des Moines, Iowa
Why? Des Moines generates over half its electricity from wind power. Its stable economy and investments in water management make it a model for heartland resilience.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Why? After devastating floods, Cedar Rapids rebuilt with natural stormwater systems and urban forests. Its forward-thinking recovery sets a national standard for climate adaptation.
Davenport, Iowa
Why? Davenport’s floodplain redesign integrates green infrastructure and renewable power, protecting homes and ecosystems along the Mississippi River.
Omaha, Nebraska
Why? Omaha’s inland location shields it from hurricanes and wildfires. The city is expanding renewable energy projects and strengthening affordable housing to prepare for growth.
Kansas City, Missouri
Why? Kansas City is investing in green mobility and energy efficiency. Its mild seasonal weather and flood protection systems make it one of the Midwest’s most resilient metros.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Why? Sioux Falls enjoys a low disaster frequency and clean aquifers. Its renewable energy growth and strong community planning enhance long-term livability.
Bismarck, North Dakota
Why? Bismarck’s groundwater reserves, clean air, and strong infrastructure give it a unique combination of safety and affordability. The city’s growing renewable energy sector supports sustainable growth.
Burlington, North Dakota
Why? Burlington’s low population density, clean water, and agricultural innovation make it a rural model for small-town climate resilience.
Mountain West Climate Havens
(Colorado, Montana, Idaho)
The Mountain West’s elevation and cooler air provide natural buffers against extreme heat and drought.
Boulder, Colorado
Why? Boulder’s high-altitude climate, renewable energy leadership, and strong environmental policy make it one of the nation’s most proactive climate havens.
Fort Collins, Colorado
Why? With its research-driven economy and robust renewable portfolio, Fort Collins integrates climate resilience into every layer of civic planning.
Bozeman, Montana
Why? Bozeman’s growing tech and sustainability sectors, combined with cooler mountain temperatures, create a balanced climate refuge.
Missoula, Montana
Why? Missoula’s Climate Ready plan focuses on wildfire prevention, clean water, and renewable energy. The city’s environmental ethos runs deep in its policies.
Helena, Montana
Why? Helena’s elevation offers temperature moderation, and its focus on renewable energy and wildfire mitigation ensures preparedness for future conditions.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Why? Located on a pristine freshwater lake, Coeur d’Alene offers clean air, sustainable tourism, and low disaster exposure.
Boise, Idaho
Why? Boise’s dry, temperate climate and renewable energy development make it one of the most livable inland western cities.
Erie, Colorado
Why? Erie’s proximity to Denver and Boulder gives it access to renewable energy networks and green urban planning. Its high-altitude climate reduces heat extremes.
Pacific Northwest Climate Havens
(Washington, Oregon)
Known for its mild temperatures, abundant rainfall, and strong environmental leadership, the Pacific Northwest represents one of the most sustainable regions on the planet.
Seattle, Washington
Why? Seattle’s marine climate avoids temperature extremes. Its 80% renewable energy portfolio and aggressive electrification goals make it a world leader in climate adaptation.
Spokane, Washington
Why? Spokane’s dry inland climate and growing renewable energy industry make it a resilient, affordable alternative to coastal hubs.
Bellingham, Washington
Why? Bellingham’s hydroelectric power, clean air, and low disaster risk attract climate migrants seeking small-city sustainability.
Portland, Oregon
Why? Portland’s moderate climate, public transit network, and sustainability-first planning make it a global model for resilient urban living.
Eugene, Oregon
Why? Eugene’s Climate Action Plan focuses on renewable power, sustainable housing, and nature-based flood control. Its mild weather and civic participation ensure long-term adaptability.
Building the Future of Resilience
Climate havens are not about escape, they are about preparation and possibility. These cities represent the places where communities are actively building sustainable systems to weather an unpredictable century.
From Maine’s coastal towns to the plains of Iowa and the peaks of Colorado, these climate havens show that a livable, low-carbon future is within reach, one powered by innovation, cooperation, and care for both people and planet.
