Where Are Temp Files Stored on Windows?
Most temporary files live in one of two folders. The fastest way to reach the main one is to type %temp% into the Run box or the Explorer address bar.
Short answer: your per-user temporary files sit in C:\Users\<you>\AppData\Local\Temp. Open it instantly by pressing Win+R, typing %temp%, and hitting Enter. System-wide temp files live in C:\Windows\Temp.
The two temp folders
- User temp —
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Temp(i.e.C:\Users\<you>\AppData\Local\Temp). This is where.tmpfiles from Office, browsers and most apps land. - System temp —
C:\Windows\Temp. Used by Windows itself and installers running with admin rights.
How to open it
- Press Win+R.
- Type
%temp%and press Enter — Explorer jumps straight to your user Temp folder.
Is it safe to clear?
Yes, when apps are closed. Files locked by a running program are skipped automatically. Emptying Temp will not break Windows; it just forces apps to recreate scratch files as needed. Disk Cleanup and Storage Sense clean these folders for you.
FAQ
What does %temp% mean?
It is an environment variable that resolves to your user Temp folder, usually C:\Users\<you>\AppData\Local\Temp. Typing it saves you from navigating hidden AppData folders.
Why can't I see the Temp folder?
AppData is hidden by default. Use the %temp% shortcut, or enable 'Hidden items' on the View tab in File Explorer.
Are there other temp locations?
Yes — C:\Windows\Temp for system-level files, and some apps keep their own temp folders inside their AppData directory.