America’s Most Climate-Ready Cities: 10 Leading the Way

As climate change accelerates, U.S. cities are increasingly at risk from rising sea levels, extreme weather, and shrinking water resources. A 2023 Harvard University report estimates that 60 million homes nationwide are vulnerable to climate disasters. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that by 2050, $106 billion in U.S. property could be below sea level. A city’s location and climate policies are crucial in determining how well it can handle these growing threats.

Using data from the FEMA National Risk Index, which measures factors like disaster loss, resilience, and social vulnerability, we highlight the 10 U.S. cities best prepared to tackle the challenges of climate change. These cities provide valuable insights into how thoughtful planning and adaptation can help create a more resilient future.

What Makes a City Climate-Resilient?

Several factors influence a city’s ability to withstand climate change:

• Risk of coastal and riverine flooding
• Vulnerability to drought
• The frequency of extreme weather events like heat waves and hurricanes
• Availability of renewable energy incentives
• Projected water stress levels (demand vs. supply in 2050)
• Tree Equity Score, which measures the availability of tree canopy in underserved communities most vulnerable to extreme heat

These factors and the proactive climate policies of these cities are not just a response to the challenges but a testament to their commitment and inspiration to others in the journey towards a sustainable future.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco Climate Action PlanPhoto bySergio Ruiz, flickr

San Francisco is the most climate-resilient U.S. city. With fewer than three extreme heat days projected by 2050, the city will continue to enjoy its signature mild climate. Despite being a coastal city, sea-level rise will minimally impact residential areas due to solid flood management systems. San Francisco is also well-shielded from hurricanes and tornadoes, and its infrastructure supports a low risk of wildfires​.

The city has pioneered environmental policy, boasting one of the country's most comprehensive climate action plans. Its ongoing efforts to cut carbon emissions and invest in green infrastructure make it a national leader in climate resilience.

Seattle, Washington

Gov. Inslee proposes another $941 million for clean energy, climate action in WA (2023).Photo byEllen M. Banner / The Seattle Times

Seattle’s robust climate strategies have earned it a spot among the most prepared cities. Only four extreme heat days per year are expected by mid-century, and flood risk remains low, with fewer than 10% of properties projected to be in flood zones by 2050. While smoke from nearby wildfires occasionally affects air quality, Seattle still boasted 83% of days with "good" air quality in 2021​.

Thanks to its commitment to green energy and forward-thinking policies, Seattle is ready to handle future climate challenges with minimal disruption to its residents.

Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh's Community Climate Action Plan.Photo byraleighnc.gov

Though inland, Raleigh demonstrates impressive climate resilience. The city enjoys 217 days of good air quality annually, far exceeding the national average, and faces minimal risk from hurricanes and coastal flooding compared to its neighbors. Raleigh’s climate action efforts focus on bolstering its clean energy infrastructure and preparing its communities for rising temperatures​.

Raleigh is well-equipped to handle the challenges ahead, as it is taking a proactive approach to reducing carbon emissions and safeguarding its water supply.

Madison, Wisconsin

Photo byJeff Miller | University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, stands out as a city well-prepared for the future impacts of climate change. Surrounded by freshwater lakes, including Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, Madison benefits from a steady water supply, making it less vulnerable to droughts expected to impact many other regions. The city has set ambitious climate goals, such as cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050 and transitioning to 100% renewable energy for city operations by 2030. These efforts reflect Madison’s proactive approach to sustainability and resilience.

Madison is relatively protected from extreme weather events like hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes. While flooding from its lakes remains a concern, the city has implemented flood mitigation efforts to better prepare for future water-related challenges. Madison’s plentiful tree canopy and numerous parks also help reduce the urban heat island effect, making it a model for integrating green spaces into urban planning. With its commitment to climate action and strategic location, Madison offers a strong example of how cities can adapt and thrive in the face of climate change.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Buena Vista Neighborhood in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.Photo byHomes.com

Winston-Salem has one of the highest Tree Equity Scores in the country, earning a 92 out of 100. This score reflects the city’s strong canopy coverage, particularly in underserved areas. Its FEMA Risk Index score of 81 highlights the city’s resilience to natural disasters, partly thanks to its inland location near the Appalachian foothills. The city's urban forestry program helps manage over 100,000 trees, offering essential cooling and storm protection.

Winston-Salem's combination of geographic protection and forward-thinking climate strategies makes it a model for other regional cities.

Boise, Idaho

Downtown Boise.Photo byIBR File Photo.

Boise takes top honors for its impressive Tree Equity Score of 95, the highest of any city in this study. This vast canopy provides cooling effects and helps mitigate extreme weather. Protected by surrounding mountains, Boise enjoys relatively mild winters and is shielded from extreme weather events. The city’s environmental policies and clean air initiatives help maintain a high level of climate resilience.

Boise’s proactive climate adaptation strategies ensure it will remain a safe haven as the effects of climate change intensify.\

Columbus, Ohio

Columbus announces Climate Action Plan to slash carbon emissions by 2030.Photo byhttps://www.smartcitiesworld.net/

Columbus is preparing for an average of 20 extreme heat days by 2050, a significant rise from the current average. However, the city’s inland location makes it less vulnerable to hurricanes and flooding, giving it an edge over many coastal towns. With a strong climate action plan aimed at carbon neutrality by 2050, Columbus addresses its climate risks head-on​.

The city’s forward-looking policies and community resilience programs make it one of the most climate-prepared urban areas in the Midwest.

Richmond, Virginia

Richmond ranked #1 most climate-resilient city in the U.S.Photo byhttps://www.grpva.com/

Richmond faces moderate flood risks from the James River. Still, infrastructure like the James River Flood Wall helps protect the city’s vulnerable neighborhoods. With a FEMA Risk Index score of 73.24, Richmond has invested in comprehensive water management projects like the RVA Clean Water Plan, ensuring low water stress levels through 2050. The city’s inland location and relatively low number of extreme weather events contribute to its strong resilience ranking​.

Richmond's robust climate planning efforts put it ahead of many cities in mitigating the risks of climate change.

Spokane, Washington

Photo byhttps://www.nlc.org/

Spokane benefits from a low FEMA Risk Index score and minimal severe weather events—only 18 in the last five years, the lowest of any city in the top 10. Its natural geography and relatively mild climate make Spokane a resilient city in the face of climate risks. The city's flood risk is also among the lowest in this study.

Spokane’s position as a climate-resilient city is due to a combination of geography, proactive infrastructure development, and community planning.

Arlington, Virginia

Resilient Arlington: Building Awareness for Local Resiliency Planning.Photo byresilientvirginia.org

Arlington’s low flood risk, thanks to effective stormwater management along the Potomac River, combined with low projected water stress levels, makes it one of the most climate-resilient cities in the U.S. The city’s investments in upgrading stormwater processing facilities and pollution control efforts for new developments have positioned it as a leader in climate preparedness​.

Arlington is a top performer because it takes a comprehensive approach to managing its water resources and protecting its residents from climate impacts.

As climate change continues to reshape our world, the resilience of cities will become increasingly crucial in safeguarding their communities. The cities highlighted in this article provide a powerful example of how strategic planning, innovative policies, and a focus on sustainability can transform potential vulnerabilities into strengths. From the towering trees of Boise to the flood defenses in Richmond, these urban areas are not just adapting to a changing climate—they’re leading the charge. By embracing renewable energy, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in green spaces, these cities are forging a path forward that prioritizes both people and the planet. Their efforts remind us that with the right actions, we can build a future that’s not only prepared for climate change but thriving despite it.