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You’re Setting Your AC Wrong: America’s #1 Preferred Temp
America’s Ideal Sleep Temperature: Why We Like It Cold But Experts Say Warm
Published: August 4, 2026 | By: USA TODAY
The Big Number: 67 Degrees
Imagine you’re Goldilocks trying to find the perfect bedroom temperature—not too hot, not too cold, but just right for sleeping.
A new study from sleep company Bear Mattress asked over 2,000 adults across all 50 states what that magic number is. The answer? 67°F (that’s about 19°C).
Important Point: 67°F is the temperature most Americans say helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Not Every State Agrees
Just like some people like spicy food and others don’t, different states prefer different sleep temperatures. Where you live changes what feels "comfortable."
| Coldest Sleepers | Temperature | Warmest Sleepers | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 63.2°F | Hawaii | 69.5°F |
Why the difference? The study says: "Regional climate plays a major role in how Americans define ‘comfortable’."
Think about it—if you live in snowy Massachusetts, 63°F might feel cozy. But in tropical Hawaii, that same temperature might feel chilly!
What the Experts Say: Set It to 78°F
Here’s where it gets interesting. While we want 67°F for sleeping, energy companies and the government say your thermostat should be at 78°F during summer days.
Who Recommends 78°F?
- Constellation (Chicago energy company)
- National Grid (New York & Massachusetts)
- Carrier (Florida HVAC company)
- U.S. Department of Energy
Why 78°F? (The Simple Version)
- Saves money — The smaller the difference between inside and outside, the less your AC works
- Controls humidity — Keeps air from getting sticky
- Better for the planet — Less energy used = fewer emissions
Important Point: The Department of Energy says: Keep indoor temperatures comfortable while keeping the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures low to save money.
What People Actually Do (Not What They Should Do)
A 2021 Consumer Reports survey found the real average thermostat setting:
| Time of Day | Average Setting |
|---|---|
| Day & Night | 71°F |
Regional differences:
- South: 72°F during the day
- Northeast: 70°F during the day
- Nobody with central AC sets it above 76°F in summer
So most people split the difference—cooler than 78°F, but warmer than the "perfect" 67°F.
More Fun Sleep Facts from the Study
The Bear Mattress survey didn’t just ask about temperature. They looked at bedtime habits, routines, and generational quirks in 2026. Here’s what they found:
- 58% of Americans prefer sleeping on their side
- About half of Americans spend the equivalent of 3 full months every year in bed
- Nevada gets the best sleep overall
- Oklahoma has the lowest sleep comfort scores of all 50 states
Important Point: Sleep is one of the most time-consuming and essential parts of daily life—we spend roughly 1/3 of our lives doing it!
Why the Gap Between 67°F and 78°F?
Think of it like this:
| 67°F (Sleep Ideal) | 78°F (Energy Ideal) |
|---|---|
| What your body wants for deep sleep | What your wallet wants for lower bills |
| Helps your core temp drop (needed for sleep) | Keeps AC from running nonstop |
| "Comfort first" | "Efficiency first" |
The sweet spot? Many experts suggest:
78°F when you’re away or awake
Lower (around 67–70°F) when sleeping
Use fans, light bedding, or a programmable thermostat to balance both
Summary
- America’s favorite sleep temperature: 67°F (per Bear Mattress study of 2,000+ adults)
- Coldest state: Massachusetts (63.2°F) | Warmest state: Hawaii (69.5°F)
- Expert summer recommendation: 78°F (saves energy & money)
- What people actually do: Average 71°F day and night
- Bonus facts: 58% side sleepers, Nevada sleeps best, Oklahoma struggles most
FAQ
1. Why is 67°F considered the best sleep temperature?
Your body needs to cool down slightly to fall asleep and stay asleep. 67°F helps your core temperature drop naturally—like how a warm bath before bed makes you sleepy when you get out.
2. Will setting my thermostat to 78°F really save money?
Yes! The Department of Energy says each degree above 72°F can save you up to 3% on cooling costs. Over a whole summer, that adds up.
3. What if 78°F feels too hot during the day?
Try these tricks:
- Use ceiling fans (makes it feel 4°F cooler)
- Close blinds during peak sun
- Run heat-making appliances (oven, dryer) at night
- Wear light, breathable clothing
4. Can I have different temperatures for day and night?
Absolutely! A programmable or smart thermostat can automatically:
- Keep it at 78°F while you’re at work
- Drop to 67–70°F an hour before bedtime
- Warm up slightly before you wake up
5. Why do Southerners set their thermostats higher (72°F) than Northerners (70°F)?
People adapt to their climate! If you’re used to 90°F summers, 72°F feels refreshing. In the Northeast, where summers are milder, 70°F feels normal.
Source: USA TODAY | Bear Mattress Sleep Study (July 8, 2026) | Consumer Reports (2021) | U.S. Department of Energy
