The 10 Coziest Cities in the U.S., According to a New Study

When the temperatures drop, there’s something special about being in a city that feels warm, where every cafe, bookstore and local bakery feels like a little escape from the cold.

A new study from PrivacyJournal analyzed more than 100 U.S. cities to discover the country’s most comfortable destinations, taking into account walkability, parks, cafes, libraries, creative studios, and even Google searches for things like candles and blankets. The results might surprise you: Some of the coziest places aren’t those with snowy chalets, but bustling urban centers where community, creativity and comfort meet.

Here are the 10 most comfortable cities in America, ranked 10th to 1st.

10. San Francisco, California

Famous for its fog and steep hills, San Francisco proves that “comfort” can thrive in a big city. With cafes tucked into almost every neighborhood and views that brighten even gray mornings, this city scores well in terms of comfort and walkability. From the sunny pockets of Mission to the hazy charm of Richmond, there’s a corner for every mood.

Fun and enjoyable fact: That iconic San Francisco fog? Locals affectionately call it Karl, and it makes for “pleasant weather” most of the year.

9. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston combines historic charm with modern comfort, earning high marks for its abundance of neighborhood cafes and bookish spots. Whether you’re strolling the gas-lit streets of Beacon Hill or spending a rainy afternoon in a Cambridge coffee shop, this city practically defines East Coast comfort. (There are also so many fun things to do in Boston!)

Fun and enjoyable fact: The Boston Public Library’s McKim Building houses a tea room dating from 1895, where you can sip a marble sip in tranquility.

8. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis ranks high in nature and walkability; its 18 kilometers of airways allow you to explore the city center in warmth, even during the worst winters. With lakes, parks and cafes on every corner, the city proves that comfort can thrive even in freezing weather.

Fun and enjoyable fact: These skyways create a second “indoor city” above the streets, perfect for bookstore tours in the middle of winter.

7. New York, New York

The city that never sleeps still knows how to stay warm. From the cozy brownstones of Brooklyn Heights to the candlelit bars of the West Village, New York offers countless nooks for quiet comfort amid the chaos.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Central Park’s thousands of benches, many dedicated to loved ones, make it one of America’s most heartfelt (and cozy) urban retreats.

6. Portland, Oregon

Coffee, creativity and community: that’s Portland in a nutshell. With neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Alberta filled with independent bookstores and artisan bakeries, it’s no wonder this Pacific Northwest favorite ranks highly in its “Home and Hearth” category.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Some Portland cafes are housed in old Victorian houses, complete with fireplaces and reading nooks.

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii may not come to mind when you think of comfort, but Honolulu proves it can be both tropical and comforting. Its creative scene and walkable neighborhoods, including Kaimuki and Chinatown, add a warmth that has nothing to do with the weather.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Chinatown’s teahouses have become community centers where locals play board games over dim sum.

4. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis ranks first in terms of walking and nature opportunities, thanks to the sprawling forest park and brick-lined neighborhoods like The Hill and Soulard. It’s a city that combines the friendliness of a small town with the benefits of a big city.

Fun and enjoyable fact: The Soulard Farmers Market, in operation since 1779, transforms into a cozy fall gathering place serving cider and warm comfort food every weekend.

3. Orlando, Florida

Best known for its theme parks, Orlando also shines as the comfort capital, ranking #1 for “Home & Hearth.” Its neighborhoods are full of cozy Airbnbs, lakeside parks, and creative spaces for pottery or painting.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Locals flock to Lake Eola for free concerts under twinkling lights, blankets and hot chocolate optional, but encouraged.

2. Miami, Florida

Miami’s year-round warmth gives it a different kind of comfort, we’re talking cozy dinners under the stars and afternoons spent at local art studios. The city placed first for “Creative and Warm Activities,” proving once again that comfort can come with a tropical touch.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Miami’s community gardens also serve as social hubs, bringing neighbors together over shared herbs and conversations.

1.Jersey City, New Jersey

Across the Manhattan River, Jersey City takes the crown as America’s most comfortable city. Its mix of independent cafes, tree-lined streets, and waterfront views has earned it top marks in almost every category. From The Heights to the Powerhouse Arts District, each neighborhood feels like its own cozy little world.

Fun and enjoyable fact: Liberty State Park might just have the best view of the Manhattan sunset, especially from a waterfront cover.

Whether your version of comfort is relaxing with a latte at a local cafe or strolling through a park lined with fall leaves, these cities show that warmth and comfort come in many forms. And if you’re curious about which U.S. cities have the friendliest vibes — or which flavors are replacing pumpkin spice this season — we’ve got you covered, too.