Anchorage (AK) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Anchorage.
Climate overview of Anchorage
The climate in Anchorage, Alaska, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 18°C (64°F) in July to -5°C (23°F) in January.
With around 900 mm (35 in) of annual rain/snowfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. September is the wettest month and May the driest. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 9.6 hours of daily sunshine.
Anchorage Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Anchorage — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Anchorage
In Anchorage, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a moderate 18°C (64°F) in July to a very cold -5°C (23°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 12°C (54°F) in July to around -10°C (14°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Anchorage
On average, Anchorage receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 900 mm (35 in). The climate in Anchorage shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in September, the wettest month, with an average of 131 mm (5.2 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month May offers drier and sunnier days, with around 39 mm (1.5 in) of rainfall over 8 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Anchorage Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Anchorage
For those who appreciate different seasons, Anchorage serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 9.6 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 1.8 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Anchorage by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Anchorage.
The city experiences its highest humidity in November, reaching 77%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 62%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Anchorage
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 2 m/s (4 knots) in January, February, March, August, September, October, November and December to 3 m/s (6 knots) in April, May, June and July. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Anchorage
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Anchorage
What is the best time to visit Anchorage?
July typically offers the most optimal weather in Anchorage. In contrast, January, February, March, April, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Anchorage?
Daytime highs range from -5°C (23°F) in January to 18°C (64°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 12°C (54°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Anchorage get?
Annual rainfall is around 900 mm (35 in). September is the wettest month with 131 mm (5.2 in), while May is the driest with 39 mm (1.5 in).
How sunny is Anchorage?
Anchorage receives around 2,069 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 289 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 55 hours. Overall, Anchorage enjoys abundant sunshine.
Anchorage 3-Day Forecast
Anchorage (AK) 3-Day Forecast
Anchorage on the map
Anchorage is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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