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Contents
- The climate of Boston
- The best time to visit Boston
- The worst time to visit Boston
- Spring weather in Boston
- Summer weather in Boston
- Autumn weather in Boston
- Winter weather in Boston
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
A beautiful natural park with the George Washington Monument in Boston, Massachusetts
The climate of Boston
Boston, located in Massachusetts, USA, embodies a humid continental climate where there is no dry season and summers are hot, classified as Dfa by the Köppen climate classification. This classification is prominently influenced by the city's geographical position near the North Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout the year, the climate portrays substantial shifts in temperature and precipitation. Temperatures can vary drastically from a chilly low of 22.6°F (-5.2°C) in winter to a high of 81.7°F (27.6°C) during summers. The year is distributed into months wherein the climate differs from snow-laden winters to hot, human summers with a fair bit of rain.
Highlighting some unique weather characteristics, the highest average rainfall of 2.91" (74mm) is observed in three non-consecutive months: March, April, and December. In contrast, the driest month awards go to September, measuring an average rainfall of only 1.26" (32mm).
While temperatures peak in July, snowfall is mostly constrained to the winter months, reaching a maximum of 4.72" (120mm) in February, yet drops to zero inches from June to September. However, sea temperatures originate an additional dynamic, starting on the cooler side in February at 38.1°F (3.4°C) then progressively warming until August with a peak at 67.9°F (19.9°C).
Throughout the year, the climate portrays substantial shifts in temperature and precipitation. Temperatures can vary drastically from a chilly low of 22.6°F (-5.2°C) in winter to a high of 81.7°F (27.6°C) during summers. The year is distributed into months wherein the climate differs from snow-laden winters to hot, human summers with a fair bit of rain.
Highlighting some unique weather characteristics, the highest average rainfall of 2.91" (74mm) is observed in three non-consecutive months: March, April, and December. In contrast, the driest month awards go to September, measuring an average rainfall of only 1.26" (32mm).
While temperatures peak in July, snowfall is mostly constrained to the winter months, reaching a maximum of 4.72" (120mm) in February, yet drops to zero inches from June to September. However, sea temperatures originate an additional dynamic, starting on the cooler side in February at 38.1°F (3.4°C) then progressively warming until August with a peak at 67.9°F (19.9°C).
The best time to visit Boston
Between May and October would provide the most comfortable conditions for visitors to Boston. This period sees the maximum daylight hours extending to 15.2 hours in June and reasonably warm temperatures ranging from a high of 66.4°F (19.1°C) in May to 80.4°F (26.9°C) in August. Sea temperatures are also favorable, ranging from 49.2°F (9.6°C) to 67.9°F (19.9°C) during these months. The general decrease in humidity surrounding these months offers clear visibility. Alongside, rainfall is relatively low, resulting in fewer rain days.
The worst time to visit Boston
The least favourable period for visiting Boston extends from November to February when cold temperatures prevail. In these months, the maximum average temperature hardly rises above 39.9°F (4.4°C), and the minimum temperature can plunge to 22.6°F (-5.2°C). Moreover, most days experience snowfall reaching up to 4.72" (120mm) in February. Furthermore, these months offer limited daylight, decreasing to 9 hours a day in December.
Spring weather in Boston
Spring in Boston is from March to May, commencing with a blend of rain and snow. However, March experiences the most rainfall with day averages of 2.91" (74mm) over 11.6 days. With the advent of April, temperatures start to rise, reaching up to 55.2°F (12.9°C) and snowfall decreases to 0.79" (20mm). By May, the average high temperature claims 66.4°F (19.1°C), ushering in the summer.
Summer weather in Boston
Summer months in Boston from June to August depict a warm and humid atmosphere. The overall temperature experiences a high between 74.3°F (23.5°C) in June and 81.7°F (27.6°C) in July. June and July have extended daylight hours reaching as far as 15.2 hours with prominent sunshine. Meanwhile, the volume of rainfall is relatively lower than other seasons - around 2.13" (54mm) in June to 1.61" (41mm) in August.
Autumn weather in Boston
Autumn, spanning from September to November, indicates a cooling period after the hot summer. September maintains relatively warmer temperatures with highs at 72.7°F (22.6°C), gradually decreasing to 49.5°F (9.7°C) by November. Rainfall slightly increases from 1.26" (32mm) in September to 2.68" (68mm) in November. Moreover, the possibility of snowfall also resurfaces in November with 0.63" (16mm) on average.
Winter weather in Boston
Winter in Boston is from December to February and is predominantly cold and snowy. The average high temperature ranges from 39.9°F (4.4°C) in December to 34.2°F (1.2°C) in January, while the lowest averages from 29.7°F (-1.3°C) to 22.6°F (-5.2°C) in these months. December and February see the heaviest snowfall at 2.83" (72mm) and 4.72" (120mm), respectively. Daylight hours are minimal, reaching as low as 9.1 hours in December.
Weather in January
The Boston climate in January begins on a chilly note as the new year unfolds. Cold winter conditions govern the area with both high and low temperatures resting between 34.2°F (1.2°C) and 22.6°F (-5.2°C). On average, snowfall occurs for 7.6 days, leaving a total accumulation of 2.76" (70mm). Weather in January »
Weather in February
As Boston transitions from January to February, a noticeable stride towards milder conditions does not occur. The weather conditions appear similar to January, making February another month of biting winter. February experiences different high and low temperatures ranging from 36.5°F (2.5°C) to 23.5°F (-4.7°C). Weather in February »
Weather in March
March in Boston is a transitional period, moving from winter to the refreshing spring season. Noticeable changes in the weather patterns occur as compared to February's dominant cold. The region witnesses highs and lows from 43.5°F (6.4°C) to 30.9°F (-0.6°C). Weather in March »
Weather in April
The Boston weather in April signals a definitive arrival of spring. As the month proceeds, temperatures increase steadily, and weather patterns fluctuate less than in March. In contrast to colder months, the high and low temperatures rest between 55.2°F (12.9°C) and 40.5°F (4.7°C). Weather in April »
Weather in May
Boston in May is a delight for residents, offering pleasant climatic conditions. There's a shift from April’s delicate spring towards a warmer pre-summer atmosphere. Marked weather differences show that high and low temperatures range from 66.4°F (19.1°C) to 50°F (10°C). Weather in May »
Weather in June
For Boston, June marks the onset of summer. The weather becomes warmer than that witnessed in May, and temperatures continue to climb. The city experiences a high of 74.3°F (23.5°C) and a low of 57.6°F (14.2°C). The extended daylight hours cater to evening gatherings, park outings, and barbecues. Weather in June »
Weather in July
The Boston weather in July is the epitome of summer, offering the warmest conditions of the year. Notably, Boston experiences its highest temperatures this month, with 81.7°F (27.6°C) and 64.9°F (18.3°C) being the maximum and minimum respectively. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Boston’s August weather is quite similar to July's, but with a slight decrease in temperature. Overall, a high temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C) and a low of 64°F (17.8°C) becomes the new standard. Around this time, Boston experiences less humid conditions than those seen earlier in the summer. Weather in August »
Weather in September
As Boston steps into September, the city starts bidding farewell to summer and welcomes the fall. A shift in the weather pattern from August is noticeable, with high and low temperatures registering at 72.7°F (22.6°C) and 57.4°F (14.1°C) respectively. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October continues the beautiful descent into fall in Boston. The weather remains mild, but temperatures drop visibly if compared with September. A further change in the weather shows a high of 61.5°F (16.4°C) and a low of 48.4°F (9.1°C). Weather in October »
Weather in November
Boston in November witnesses a transition from the moderate fall climate to the cold onset of winter due to decline in temperatures. The first half of the month enjoys fall, but the frosty winter starts dominating towards the end. Weather in November »
Weather in December
For Boston, December is synonymous with winter, and the climatic conditions validate this perception. A considerable drop in temperatures from November's mildness indicates a high of 39.9°F (4.4°C) and a low of 29.7°F (-1.3°C). Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
What are the coldest months in Boston?
Boston's January weather, marked by an average high temperature of 34.2°F (1.2°C) and an average low temperature of 22.6°F (-5.2°C), is the coldest in the year.
How many days does it rain in Boston?
In Boston, during the entire year, the rain falls for 141.4 days and collects up to 27.2" (691mm) of precipitation.
When does it snow in Boston?
Months with snowfall in Boston are January through May, October through December.
How much does it snow in Boston?
In Boston, during the entire year, snow falls for 29.8 days and aggregates up to 15.75" (400mm) of snow.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Boston?
The months with the lowest UV index in Boston, Massachusetts, are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What is the most humid month in Boston?
The most humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 77%.
When does it snow the most in Boston?
February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 7.6 days and accumulates 4.72" (120mm) of snow.
When is the ocean coldest in Boston?
With an average ocean temperature of 38.1°F (3.4°C), February is the month with the coldest seawater in Boston, Massachusetts.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Boston?
February has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 4.6h of sunshine.
What is the wettest month in Boston?
The months with the most rainfall are March, April and December, with an average 2.91" (74mm) of precipitation.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Boston?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
What is the least humid month in Boston?
April is the least humid month in Boston, with an average relative humidity of 69%.
When it does not snow in Boston?
June through September are months without snowfall in Boston, Massachusetts.
When are the longest days in Boston?
With an average of 15h and 12min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year in Boston, Massachusetts.
When is the highest UV index in Boston?
June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index in Boston, Massachusetts.
What are the warmest months in Boston?
During the warmest month in Boston, July, temperatures average a high of 81.7°F (27.6°C) and a low of 64.9°F (18.3°C).
When is the ocean warmest in Boston?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Boston, Massachusetts, with an average ocean temperature of 68°F (20°C).
What month has the most sunshine in Boston?
August has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.
What is the driest month in Boston?
September is the month with the least rainfall in Boston, Massachusetts. Rain falls for 10 days and accumulates 1.26" (32mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Boston?
The month with the shortest days in Boston, Massachusetts, is December, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.
Average temperature
Boston, MA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (81.7°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (34.2°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (22.6°F).
Average pressure
Boston, MA
- Average pressure in January:
30"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30.01"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.03"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).
Average wind speed
Boston, MA
- Average wind speed in January:
9.9mph - Average wind speed in February:
9.6mph - Average wind speed in March:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in April:
8.6mph - Average wind speed in May:
7.4mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.8mph
- Average wind speed in July:
6.3mph - Average wind speed in August:
6.2mph - Average wind speed in September:
6.8mph - Average wind speed in October:
8.3mph - Average wind speed in November:
8.8mph - Average wind speed in December:
9.4mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9.9mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6.2mph).
Average humidity
Boston, MA
The month with the highest relative humidity is February (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (69%).
Average rainfall
Boston, MA
- Average rainfall in January:
2.28" - Average rainfall in February:
2.24" - Average rainfall in March:
2.91" - Average rainfall in April:
2.91" - Average rainfall in May:
1.81" - Average rainfall in June:
2.13"
- Average rainfall in July:
1.89" - Average rainfall in August:
1.61" - Average rainfall in September:
1.26" - Average rainfall in October:
2.56" - Average rainfall in November:
2.68" - Average rainfall in December:
2.91"
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are March, April and December (2.91").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.26").
Average rainfall days
Boston, MA
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.9 days - Average rainfall days in February:
8.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.6 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
13.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
10 days - Average rainfall days in October:
13.3 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.2 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (15.3 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (7.9 days).
Average snowfall
Boston, MA
- Average snowfall in January:
2.76" - Average snowfall in February:
4.72" - Average snowfall in March:
3.86" - Average snowfall in April:
0.79" - Average snowfall in May:
0.04" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (4.72").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Boston, MA
- Average snowfall days in January:
7.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
7.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
6.8 days - Average snowfall days in April:
1 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in November:
1.4 days - Average snowfall days in December:
5.2 days
The months with the highest number of snowfall days are January and February (7.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Boston, MA
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (67.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (38.1°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Boston, MA
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 3min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 1min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 3min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 36min).
Average sunshine days
Boston, MA
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.2 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.2 days - Average sunshine days in June:
14.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
17 days - Average sunshine days in September:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in October:
15.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
17.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
16.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is September (17.7 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (13 days).
Average UV index
Boston, MA
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Boston, MA
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 51).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 32).
Average visibility
Boston, MA
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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