Texas is famous for its big skies, bold flavors, and blazing summers—but it’s also notorious for its humidity. Step outside in Houston or Corpus Christi in July, and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a sauna. For many Texans and newcomers alike, humidity isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be downright oppressive. But not all of Texas is sticky and damp. In fact, some cities offer a dry, breathable climate that’s a welcome relief from the muggy Gulf Coast.

In this article, we explore the Humidity in Texas (or rather the places with the lack of it) based on climate data, geography, and local weather trends. Whether you’re planning a move, a vacation, or just curious about where the dry air lives, this guide will take you across the Lone Star State’s most arid urban landscapes.

Why Humidity Matters

Before diving into the list, let’s talk about why humidity is such a big deal. Humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. High humidity makes hot temperatures feel even hotter, slows down sweat evaporation, and can lead to mold, mildew, and respiratory discomfort. Low humidity, on the other hand, feels cooler and more comfortable—especially in summer.

In Texas, humidity varies dramatically depending on geography. Eastern and southern regions near the Gulf of Mexico tend to be humid year-round, while western and panhandle areas are much drier thanks to elevation, desert influence, and distance from large bodies of water.

The Top 10 Least Humid Cities in Texas

1. El Paso

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~28%
  • Region: Far West Texas

El Paso tops the list as the driest major city in Texas. Nestled in the Chihuahuan Desert and bordered by the Franklin Mountains, El Paso enjoys a desert climate with low humidity year-round. Summers are hot but dry, and winters are mild. The city’s elevation (around 3,800 feet) contributes to its arid conditions. Residents often describe the air as crisp and breathable—even in July. For those sensitive to humidity, El Paso is a haven.

Bonus: El Paso’s dry climate also means fewer allergens and mold issues, making it ideal for people with respiratory conditions.

2. Amarillo

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~35%
  • Region: Texas Panhandle

Amarillo sits high on the plains of the Texas Panhandle and boasts a semi-arid climate. Its elevation (over 3,600 feet) and open landscape allow for steady breezes that keep humidity low. While Amarillo experiences all four seasons, its summers are notably dry compared to other Texas cities. The city’s dryness is also why it’s a popular spot for ranching and agriculture that thrives in low-moisture environments.

Fun Fact: Amarillo is known for its wide-open skies and stunning sunsets—both enhanced by the dry, clear air.

3. Lubbock

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~38%
  • Region: Northwest Texas

Lubbock, home to Texas Tech University, is another Panhandle city with low humidity. Its semi-arid climate means hot summers and cool winters, but the air remains dry throughout the year. Lubbock’s elevation and distance from the Gulf help keep moisture levels low. The city is also known for its dust storms—proof of its dry conditions and flat terrain.

Local Tip: Lubbock’s dry air makes it a great place for outdoor concerts and festivals, which are popular in the city’s vibrant music scene.

4. Midland

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~39%
  • Region: West Texas

Midland is located in the heart of West Texas oil country and enjoys a desert-like climate. Summers are hot, but the humidity stays low, making the heat more tolerable. Midland’s dry air is a result of its location in the Permian Basin and its distance from any major water sources. The city’s climate is ideal for those who prefer dry heat over sticky conditions.

Bonus: Midland’s dry weather contributes to its booming energy sector, where equipment and infrastructure benefit from low moisture exposure.

5. Abilene

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~40%
  • Region: Central West Texas

Abilene sits at the crossroads of Central and West Texas and offers a blend of dry air and moderate elevation. Its semi-arid climate means less humidity than cities further east, and its location away from the Gulf keeps moisture levels in check. Abilene’s dry summers and mild winters make it a comfortable place to live year-round.

Fun Fact: Abilene’s dry climate has helped preserve its historic downtown architecture, which dates back to the early 1900s.

6. Odessa

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~41%
  • Region: West Texas

Odessa, Midland’s twin city, shares the same dry climate and desert conditions. Located in the Permian Basin, Odessa experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city’s low humidity is a major draw for residents who prefer dry heat and minimal rainfall. Like Midland, Odessa benefits from its arid environment in both lifestyle and industry.

Local Insight: Odessa’s dry air makes it a great place for stargazing, with clear skies dominating most nights.

7. San Angelo

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~42%
  • Region: Central West Texas

San Angelo is located along the Concho River but still maintains a semi-arid climate. Its humidity levels are slightly higher than West Texas cities but still much lower than coastal areas. San Angelo’s dry air is balanced by occasional breezes and a relatively mild climate. The city is known for its outdoor lifestyle, with parks, trails, and lakes that benefit from the comfortable weather.

Bonus: San Angelo’s dry climate supports a thriving arts community, with outdoor installations and events year-round.

8. Del Rio

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~43%
  • Region: Southwest Texas

Del Rio sits near the Mexican border and experiences hot, dry summers with low humidity. Its proximity to the desert and distance from the Gulf help keep moisture levels down. While Del Rio does receive some rainfall, the overall climate remains arid. The city’s dry air is a welcome contrast to the humid conditions found in South Texas.

Fun Fact: Del Rio is home to Lake Amistad, a popular spot for boating and fishing—made more enjoyable by the dry, sunny weather.

9. Fort Stockton

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~44%
  • Region: West Texas

Fort Stockton is a small city in West Texas with a true desert climate. Its low humidity and high temperatures make it one of the driest places in the state. Fort Stockton’s elevation and geographic isolation contribute to its arid conditions. The city is a favorite among travelers seeking a quiet, dry escape from Texas’s more humid regions.

Local Highlight: Fort Stockton’s dry air and clear skies make it a great stop for RV travelers and road trippers exploring West Texas.

10. Pecos

  • Average Summer Humidity: ~45%
  • Region: Far West Texas

Pecos rounds out the list with its desert climate and low humidity. Located near the New Mexico border, Pecos experiences hot summers, cool winters, and dry air year-round. The city’s climate is ideal for agriculture suited to arid conditions, and its small-town charm makes it a peaceful place to live or visit.

Bonus: Pecos is famous for its cantaloupes, which thrive in the dry, sunny climate.

What Makes These Cities Less Humid?

Several factors contribute to low humidity in these cities:

  • Distance from the Gulf of Mexico: The further west you go in Texas, the less influence the Gulf has on local weather.
  • Elevation: Higher altitudes tend to have cooler, drier air.
  • Desert and Semi-Arid Climate Zones: West Texas and the Panhandle fall into these zones, which naturally produce less moisture.
  • Wind Patterns: Breezes in open plains and desert areas help disperse humidity.

Living in a Low-Humidity City: Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • More comfortable summers
  • Fewer mold and mildew issues
  • Better conditions for respiratory health
  • Easier maintenance of buildings and vehicles
  • Clearer skies and better visibility

Cons:

  • Dry skin and eyes
  • Increased risk of wildfires
  • Limited rainfall for gardening
  • Dust storms in some areas

Final Thoughts

Texas is a state of extremes—from humid bayous to arid deserts. If you’re someone who dreads sticky air and longs for breathable summers, the cities on this list offer a refreshing alternative. Whether you’re relocating for health reasons, lifestyle preferences, or just chasing the sun, these dry destinations deliver comfort without compromise.

From El Paso’s desert charm to Amarillo’s breezy plains, the least humid cities in Texas prove that you don’t have to sweat through summer to enjoy the Lone Star State. So pack your sunscreen, grab your shades, and head west—where the air is dry, and the skies are wide.