Environmental Scientists Redefine Home Comfort with the 2nd Annual "America's Coziest Cities" Ranking

From Portland to Durham, makers of Honeywell Heaters identify the top coziest cities across the country

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Kaz

Jan 13, 2015, 10:12 ET

SOUTHBOROUGH, Mass., Jan. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- While to some the definition of coziness might mean curling up fireside at a bed and breakfast, to others it could mean quaint streets and access to coffee shops. As temperatures plummet, many Americans will be looking for ways to stay comfortable and warm this winter, but not all U.S. cities were created equal when it comes to their cozy factor. The makers of Honeywell portable heaters and scientists at environmental consulting company Environmental Health & Engineering have identified America's coziest cities—and Maine has unseated Massachusetts for the #1 coziest spot.

"Last year, Boston took the first spot on the list but this year, was knocked out by Portland, Maine. This year, we've re-evaluated the definition of coziness and have widened our criteria and search," said Dr. Ted Myatt, ScD, Environmental Health & Engineering. "While we again looked at factors like the number of restaurants and coffee shops, which contribute to ambiance, we also looked at other elements that make a city more accessible and comfortable, such as number of museums, florists, breweries, and bed-and-breakfast hotels."

Based on the criteria and expert ranking, below is a list of the top 10 coziest U.S. cities:

  1. Portland, Maine
  2. Santa Barbara, Calif.
  3. Asheville, N.C.
  4. Boston, Mass.
  5. Santa Rosa, Calif.
  6. Providence, R.I.
  7. Charleston, S.C.
  8. Madison, Wis.
  9. Durham, N.C.
  10. Portland, Ore.

The makers of Honeywell infrared heaters found that 97 percent of Americans have deemed their homes "cozy" due to comfortable furniture, inviting décor, warm colors and comfortable temperature.1  Anyone can create their own warm, cozy space with a Honeywell EnergySmart® Infrared Heater, which features whole-room energy efficient heating. These elegantly designed portable heaters utilize infrared heating technology to provide a heat output of 5,200 BTUs without burning oxygen or humidity, which can cause rooms to feel dry.  Long lasting, premium quartz heating elements begin working instantly, providing a soft glow and warmth that users can immediately see and feel.

For tips on keeping your home cozy or for more information on Honeywell heaters, visit http://www.honeywellheatsavings.com/personal-heaters/top-10-coziest-cities/.

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1 National omnibus survey conducted by the makers of Honeywell heaters and Lindberg International, July 2013.

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