18 U.S. Cities Could Be Underwater Sooner Than You Think
Flooding used to be a rare event, but now it’s becoming part of daily life in parts of the country. With land sinking and sea levels rising, many U.S. cities, especially coastal ones, are facing serious threats from water. Based on new research and projections, these 18 cities could be underwater a lot sooner than people think.
Miami Beach, Florida
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This glamorous beachfront city could see over 85% of its housing in high-risk flood zones by 2100. Already, “sunny day” flooding during high tides is common. Climate Central’s data suggests new development here hasn’t slowed, even though nearly all new housing is being built in at-risk areas.
New Orleans, Louisiana
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Parts of New Orleans are sinking two inches a year, and rising sea levels add to the problem. The city sits mostly below sea level, protected by levees that are tested with every storm. Scientists estimate that up to 30% of the city could be underwater by 2030.
Galveston, Texas
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Built on a barrier island, Galveston is losing ground, literally. The city’s seawall helps, but subsidence and intense storms mean its future depends heavily on infrastructure investments. Galveston’s role as a hurricane buffer for Houston is becoming shakier, thanks to surges predicted up to 20 feet in extreme cases.
Charleston, South Carolina
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The historic downtown, built centuries ago, wasn’t exactly designed for climate change. Tourism and preservation groups are scrambling to protect cobblestone streets that might one day double as canals. Charleston now experiences over 50 tidal flooding events a year, and projections say that number could triple soon.
Norfolk, Virginia
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Here, the stakes are pretty high with 26% of housing in flood zones and the world’s largest naval base right on the water. The city has already started raising roads and installing tide gates, but more than $4 billion in home value is still vulnerable. If the sea level keeps rising, Norfolk may need to retreat inland.
Key West, Florida
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Rising tides already swamp city blocks during king tides. By 2030, if sea levels rise even half a foot, nearly a third of Key West could see regular flooding. Everyday routines—commutes, errands, school—now depend on the tide charts.
San Mateo, California
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San Mateo’s waterfront is in serious trouble. Nearly 42% of housing is in projected risk zones, and over 67% of new construction is being built in areas vulnerable to future flooding. Climate models say this Silicon Valley-adjacent city could face worsening storms and rising tides that threaten both real estate and the local economy.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
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Hilton Head has beaches, golf courses, and extensive exposure to sea-level rise. Over 64% of its housing is in areas likely to flood. This upscale resort island might see up to 20% of its land go underwater during high tides by 2030. Property values are high here, but so is the flood risk.
Urban Honolulu, Hawaii
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Waikiki and other coastal neighborhoods in Honolulu are on borrowed time. Sea levels may rise up to eight inches by 2030, and erosion is already eating away at beaches. About 32% of the city’s housing is at risk.
Hialeah, Florida
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Over 64% of homes here could be affected by flooding, with nearly all new development in high-risk zones. Hialeah isn’t a coastal city by postcard standards, but it’s still in serious trouble. That’s a major concern for one of the state’s largest working-class communities.
Boston, Massachusetts
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Boston’s Seaport District and Logan Airport sit on land that used to be marshes, and nature remembers. By 2030, around 7% of the city will be at risk of regular flooding. Unlike some cities, Boston has an aggressive climate resilience plan in motion. But time and tides are relentless.
St. Petersburg, Florida
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With Tampa Bay on one side and the Gulf on the other, St. Pete is practically surrounded. Up to 15% of the city could experience regular tidal flooding by 2030. The waterfront is beautiful but vulnerable, and parts of the city’s popular parks and beaches may need costly protection to survive.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
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Parts of Atlantic City now flood during high tides. By 2030, more than a fifth of the city could be regularly underwater. With the boardwalk and casinos in the flood zone, keeping the lights on may depend on flood barriers, not luck.
Redwood City, California
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This Silicon Valley city has a high share of homes in projected risk zones. Developers keep building in flood-prone areas, even as warnings grow louder. The shoreline is low and flat, which increases exposure to storm surge and sea-level creep.
Annapolis, Maryland
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Home to the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis is no stranger to water, but that water is getting closer every year. Downtown streets now flood more than 50 times annually. Sandbags and pumps are now regular tools for residents. It’s picturesque, yes but also precarious.