Recently updated on July 21st, 2025
Have you ever been almost carried away by the wind? Or perhaps your umbrella flipped over before you could say “gusty”? Welcome from the crazy world of the windiest cities in America! A few parts of the United States are notorious for their unrelenting gusts, from windswept plains to blustery coastal towns—and believe us, it’s not just Chicago! This whirlwind tour will blow your mind (but hopefully not your hat), whether you’re planning a trip, moving, or are just an interested weather enthusiast.
Let’s look over the windiest cities in the US are always blowing—and why you might be blown away, positively!
The Windiest Cities In The Us: Where To Hold Onto Your Hat
Have you ever had your hair turn into a tangled mess or had your umbrella snatched away by the wind? The windiest cities in the US will have you clutching your hat and in awe of Mother Nature’s incredible strength, whether they are on stormy coastlines or gusty plains.
1. Amarillo, Texas – Gusts And Grit
In Texas, everything is larger, even the wind! Winds in the Texas Panhandle city of Amarillo typically reach 12.9 mph. Sandstorms, particularly in the spring when warm and cold fronts collide in a dusty dance across the open plains, are nothing new to this city.
It is the ideal wind tunnel due to its level, dry terrain. It might not always be the best place to eat al fresco, but it’s perfect for wind turbines, and Amarillo has seized the opportunity with sustainable wind energy projects everywhere.
Local Tip: Try the Cadillac Ranch if you’re there, but make sure to put on your best shoes first!
2. Boston, Massachusetts – Blustery On The Bay
The Atlantic Ocean provides Boston’s winds, in contrast to the plains cities. This seaside city is notorious for Nor’easters, which are powerful windstorms that bring heavy snow and gusts of over fifty miles per hour, particularly in the winter.
Although Boston’s average wind speed is 12.3 mph, it can feel much stronger during storms. It’s not just cold, it’s freezing, so bring plenty of clothing if you’re going in the winter!
Travel Tip: For an exciting (and possibly windswept) view of the waterfront, head to the Boston Harborwalk.
3. Buffalo, New York – Breezes Off The Great Lakes
Lake Erie provides Buffalo with wind, particularly when cold fronts move in during the fall and winter. The lake effect can make the city’s average speed feel much higher than 11.8 mph.
Also, during the winter months, near-whiteout conditions are produced by lake-effect snow combined with strong winds. Buffalo is the place to go if you enjoy sledding and snowdrifts.
4. Cheyenne, Wyoming – High Elevation, High Winds
At more than 6,000 feet above sea level, Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, is particularly vulnerable to wind. This city frequently experiences severe winter gusts, including ground blizzards, with average wind speeds exceeding 12 mph.
Particularly from October to April, its vast open prairies and mountainous surroundings act as a natural wind funnel. Cheyenne is the place to go if you enjoy brisk walks and authentic cowboy weather.
Weather Alert: During winter storms, winds in Cheyenne have been known to reach hurricane strength!
5. Chicago, Illinois – The “Windy” City (Not Just A Nickname!)
With average winds of only 10.3 mph—still breezy, but not the breeziest—Chicago may surprise you by not ranking first on the list.
Why, then, the nickname? Some claim that the term “Windy City” originally referred to rambling politicians rather than the actual weather, though this is somewhat of a myth! Nevertheless, Chicago experiences some windy days due to its proximity to Lake Michigan, particularly in the downtown area.
Must-See: Take in breathtaking views of the city from the Navy Pier or the Willis Tower Skydeck.
6. Dodge City, Kansas – The Wild, Windy West
Along with being well-known for its saloons and cowboys, Dodge City, which is in the center of the Great Plains, is also one of the windiest cities in the US, with average wind speeds exceeding 13 mph.
Why is it so windy? Because of its location, air masses blowing across the level plains naturally use it as a corridor. Dodge City feels the full force of Mother Nature’s breath because there aren’t any large mountains or forests to block the wind. Kansas is one of the top wind-producing states in the country, demonstrating how powerful wind energy is here!
Fun Fact: Like snow days elsewhere, local schools occasionally experience “wind days.” That’s tough, Kansas.
7. Great Falls, Montana – Wind Meets The Rockies
Despite its peaceful appearance, Great Falls is one of the windiest cities in the US. It is located east of the Rocky Mountains and frequently receives powerful chinook winds, which are dry, warm breezes that come down from the mountains.
Although gusts can reach much higher speeds, average wind speeds are around 12.2 mph. In just a few minutes, these winds can warm up a frigid day, allowing for some dramatic changes in attire!
Why It Matters: In late winter and early spring, chinook winds play a critical role in melting snow and averting flooding.
8. Lubbock, Texas – Dust In The Wind
Another Texas tornado alley hot spot where the wind is both a friend and an enemy is Lubbock, which is located just south of Amarillo. Strong spring gusts, blowing dust, and abrupt weather changes are all common in Lubbock, which has an average wind speed of slightly less than 13 mph.
It’s not all bad, though; wind keeps those renowned West Texas sunsets clear, cools hot summer days, and helps remove pollutants.
Fun Fact: Texas Tech University’s Wind Science and Engineering Research Center is in Lubbock; yes, they research wind here!
9. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Where The Wind Comes Sweeping Down The Plain
Rodgers and Hammerstein weren’t joking; Oklahoma City constantly ranks among the nation’s windiest metro areas, with average speeds of 11.3 mph. Located in the middle of the nation, Oklahoma City experiences extreme temperature fluctuations that fuel strong winds, particularly during tornado season. Additionally, “dryline” winds—where desert air collides with moist Gulf air—occur frequently in the city.
Fun Fact: Oklahoma is known for having more tornadoes per square mile than any other state.
10. Rochester, Minnesota – Cold And Windy Combo
Rochester, another lesser-known windy city in the upper Midwest, has year-round average winds of 12 mph. It’s no surprise that locals have perfected the art of layering when you combine that with the long, cold winters.
When weather systems drastically clash in the spring and fall, Rochester experiences the strongest winds. Yet, its cool, windy summers are ideal for bike rides and picnics.
Conclusion
Being aware of the windiest cities in the US can help you get ready, both physically and mentally, whether you’re planning your next move or seeking adventure. Every city offers a different take on the breezy lifestyle, from coastal metropolises to cowboy towns in the Plains. You’re among the windiest places in America, so the next time you feel a strong gust, just smile!
