The coldest place on Earth that is inhabited by humans year round is Oymyakon, Siberia. It can reach temperatures as low as negative 96 degrees fahrenheit, and is only a few hundred miles away from the Arctic Circle.

The coldest place on Earth that is inhabited by humans year round is Oymyakon, Siberia.

It can reach temperatures as low as negative 96 degrees fahrenheit, and is only a few hundred miles away from the Arctic Circle.

It used to just be a seasonal stop for nomadic reindeer herders, but it was turned into a permanent settlement when the former Soviet government tried to hinder nomadic cultures in the area.

The local inhabitants of Oymyakon survive by raising livestock, and protect themselves from the cold with fur garments.

According to explorer Nick Middleton, people who live in Oymyakon mostly eat meat and drink milk.

Middleton is quoted as saying: “There is a short summer season during which people can grow things. But for the most part people don't eat fruit or vegetables.”

The climate can be inhospitable for modern conveniences like cars, running water, and electronics, but the area still has a tourist industry that includes ice fishing, reindeer hunts, bathing in a hot spring in the subzero temperatures, and even jumping into freezing cold water, which has purported health benefits.