Some people live in places so cold that stepping outside for even a few minutes can be dangerous. These communities endure brutally low temperatures for months on end, yet they continue to thrive despite the extreme climate.
From icy villages in Siberia to frozen towns in North America, these are the coldest inhabited places on Earth.
1. Oymyakon, Russia – The Coldest Inhabited Place on Earth
Oymyakon, a small village in Siberia, holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in a permanently inhabited place: -96.2°F (-71.2°C) in 1924. Winter temperatures regularly hover around -50°F (-45°C), making daily life incredibly challenging.
Despite the bone-chilling cold, about 500 people live here. Cars must be kept running at all times to prevent the engines from freezing, and pipes are useless because water freezes instantly. Locals survive by eating a diet rich in meat and fish since crops can’t grow in such extreme conditions.
2. Verkhoyansk, Russia – A Rival for the Coldest Town
Verkhoyansk, another Siberian town, is one of the only places on Earth that competes with Oymyakon for the coldest inhabited location. It holds the record for the greatest temperature range of any place on Earth, with winter lows around -90°F (-67°C) and summer highs exceeding 100°F (38°C).
This town of around 1,000 people was originally a political exile settlement during the Russian Empire. Today, its residents are mostly involved in hunting, fishing, and raising reindeer. The long, harsh winters make survival a daily battle.
3. Yakutsk, Russia – The Coldest Big City
Yakutsk is the coldest city of its size on Earth, home to over 300,000 people. Located in eastern Siberia, winter temperatures can drop below -80°F (-62°C). Yet, life goes on with heated buildings, underground shopping centers, and special cold-resistant clothing.
The city is rich in natural resources, including diamonds, making it an economic hub despite its extreme conditions. However, locals must deal with frostbite risks, frozen eyelashes, and ice-covered streets for months on end.
4. Norilsk, Russia – The Coldest Industrial City
Norilsk, a mining city in Siberia, is not just one of the coldest places on Earth—it’s also one of the most polluted. Winter temperatures frequently dip below -40°F (-40°C), and it remains covered in snow for over 250 days a year.
Despite the extreme cold, more than 170,000 people live here, primarily working in the nickel and metal industries. The city is so remote that no roads connect it to the rest of Russia. Everything must be flown in or delivered by boat during the brief summer months.
5. Yellowknife, Canada – The Coldest Capital City
Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, experiences some of the lowest temperatures of any major city in North America. Winter lows can reach -50°F (-45°C), and the city sits on the edge of the Arctic tundra.
Despite the extreme cold, nearly 20,000 people live here, drawn by gold mining, tourism, and the stunning natural beauty. The long, dark winters are balanced by breathtaking views of the northern lights and outdoor activities like ice fishing and dog sledding.
6. Barrow (Utqiaġvik), Alaska – America’s Coldest Town
Barrow, officially known as Utqiaġvik, is the northernmost town in the United States. Temperatures here rarely rise above freezing for much of the year, with winter lows dipping to -56°F (-49°C).
The town has no road access to the rest of Alaska and can only be reached by plane. Most of its residents are Indigenous Iñupiat people, who have adapted to the harsh climate with traditional hunting and fishing practices.
7. Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – The Coldest National Capital
Mongolia’s capital, Ulaanbaatar, is the coldest national capital on Earth. Winter temperatures regularly drop below -40°F (-40°C), making daily life a challenge. Heating is a necessity, and many residents still live in traditional yurts, which they insulate with thick layers of felt.
The city’s extreme climate doesn’t stop it from being a cultural and economic center. Nearly half of Mongolia’s population lives here, enduring harsh winters while keeping the country’s nomadic traditions alive.
8. Harbin, China – The Ice City
Nicknamed “Ice City,” Harbin is the coldest major city in China, with winter temperatures dropping to -40°F (-40°C). Despite the freezing weather, it is famous for its annual Ice and Snow Festival, where enormous ice sculptures are carved from frozen rivers.
Harbin’s winters attract thousands of tourists, but locals have adapted to the extreme cold with heavy winter clothing and hearty meals like hotpot. The city’s mix of Russian and Chinese architecture gives it a unique character.
9. Fraser, Colorado – The Icebox of the United States
Fraser, Colorado, is one of the coldest permanently inhabited places in the continental U.S. Nicknamed “The Icebox of the Nation,” temperatures here regularly drop below -30°F (-34°C) during winter.
Despite the frigid climate, Fraser is a popular ski destination and home to a small but hardy population. Snow-covered mountains and winter sports keep residents and visitors engaged throughout the long, cold season.
10. International Falls, Minnesota – America’s Coldest Continental Town
International Falls, Minnesota, is one of the coldest towns in the lower 48 states. Known as the “Icebox of the Nation,” winter temperatures often plunge to -40°F (-40°C).
The town embraces its cold reputation, hosting winter festivals and even an annual “Icebox Days” celebration. Despite the frigid weather, the residents take pride in their ability to handle the extreme cold with a good sense of humor.
