What Temp Should You Set Your AC In Summer in Minnesota?

Trying to stay cool without burning up your energy bill? Experts say there’s one thermostat setting that strikes the perfect balance for those of us sweating through another hot Minnesota summer.

The summer of 2026 isn't even a month old in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, but we've already been sweating through several weeks of hot and humid weather. Air conditioners across the Bold North have been pressed into service and are working overtime to keep our homes cool in the sweltering heat. And the heat and humidity don't show signs of letting up anytime soon.

But what temperature do you have your air conditioner set at? Outside of perhaps money issues, few things can be as contentious in a household here in the North Star State as setting the temperature on your air conditioner or furnace. If you've been running your air conditioning-- like most of us have-- do you have it set at the magic temperature energy experts suggest?

My wife and I agree on just about all of the main issues in a relationship-- except for setting the temperature on our central air conditioner. We don't get into big arguments, mind you, but while I'm always trying to nudge the temperature down in the summer, my wife usually tries to keep it warmer.

What Temperature Should You Set Your AC During Summer?

However, even her ideal temperature is still significantly colder than the temperature at which the U.S. government recommends setting your AC.

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In the summer, if we use our AC, we've agreed to keep it set at 74 degrees. I will admit, though, I sometimes try to nudge it down to 73, or if I'm really warm, maybe 72. But even at 74 degrees, that's still WAAAY cooler than energy experts recommend.

Here's How Much Raising Your Thermostat Can Save

Both the Department of Energy (DOE) and Energy Star, a joint federal program run by the DOE and the Environmental Protection Agency, suggest that you should set your thermostat at the following temperatures during the summer here in Minnesota:

78° F when you’re home
85° F when you’re at work or away
82° F when you’re sleeping

The DOE says you’ll save about 3 percent on your utility bill for every degree you raise the set temperature. That might be true, but geez, if you're going to set your thermostat at 78 degrees, why even turn your AC on at all, am I right?!?

What Temperature Do Most Americans Actually Use?

Despite those recommendations, though, many of us set our AC much cooler than that. According to a 2021 survey from Consumer Reports, most Americans say they keep their thermostats at around 71 F during the day and night. Folks in the south set theirs the highest (72° F during the day and 71° F at night), and those in the Northeast set it coldest (70° F both day and night).

So, what say you-- what temperature is your AC set at during the summer in Minnesota? And if you want a different way to keep your cool during another sweltering summer here in the Bold North, keep scrolling to check out a Minnesota cabin that features a hidden swimming pool!