As a long-time resident of Texas, I have often been asked the question: what part of Texas has the best temperature? And after years of living and experiencing different regions of this great state, I can confidently say that the answer lies in the Panhandle, particularly around and north of Amarillo. While many may assume that the southern regions of Texas would have the most pleasant temperatures, it is actually the Panhandle that boasts the most comfortable climate. According to the annual Texas BestPlaces Comfort Index, this area has a score of 7.2 out of 10, making it more comfortable than most states in the United States. But what makes this region so special when it comes to temperature? It's not just about the amount of sunshine, although residents of El Paso do enjoy the most sunny days in all of Texas. On average, there is sunshine here on 84 percent of days, equating to 293 total days of sunshine during the year. However, it's not just about the sun itself. In fact, the heat from the sun is actually less intense in this region compared to other parts of Texas.
This is because urban areas receive 20 to 30 percent less direct solar radiation than rural areas. But unfortunately, this is only a small consolation when it comes to temperature. The main culprit for higher temperatures in cities is air pollution. This pollution layer acts as a shield and a blanket, reflecting heat from outside but also trapping it inside like a blanket. The more pollution there is, the thicker and more windproof this blanket becomes, resulting in hotter temperatures.
While scientists are still determining exactly how much pollution contributes to urban heat islands, they are certain that it does play a significant role. One city in Texas that stands out for its air quality is Fort Worth. Due to its altitude, latitude, and air quality, it is classified in a different ecological region called Grand Prairie. This area produces some of the least humid cities in Texas, with Texarkana having an average humidity level of around 72%. This makes it the best place to live in Texas for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. Another city in the Panhandle that offers comfortable temperatures is Lubbock.
Located about two hours south of Amarillo, it also has some of the coldest average temperatures in Texas. In fact, the University of Texas School of Public Health is currently conducting a comprehensive study on heat islands in the city of Houston, Texas. But when it comes to the lowest average maximum temperature in Texas, Pampa takes the crown with an average of 70 degrees. This small city is also located in the Panhandle and offers a pleasant climate for its residents.