Fairbanks (AK) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Fairbanks.
Climate overview of Fairbanks
The climate in Fairbanks, Alaska, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 23°C (73°F) in July to -15°C (5°F) in January.
The city tends toward dry conditions, with around 415 mm (16 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It does, however, have a distinct dry season from October to May, with warm summers and very cold winters. The most sunshine falls in June, with an average of 11.1 hours of daily sunshine.
Fairbanks Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Fairbanks - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Fairbanks
In Fairbanks, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in July to a very cold -15°C (5°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 13°C (55°F) in July to around -23°C (-9°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Fairbanks
Fairbanks's climate is marked by below-average rain/snowfall, accumulating 415 mm (16 in) of precipitation yearly. The climate in Fairbanks shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 75 mm (3 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month March offers drier and sunnier days, with around 13 mm (0.5 in) of snowfall over 6 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks
For those who appreciate different seasons, Fairbanks serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in June with an average of 11.1 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 1.3 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Fairbanks by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Fairbanks.
The city experiences its highest humidity in October, reaching 74%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 50%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Fairbanks
The mean wind speed varies between 1 m/s (2 knots) and 3 m/s (6 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in January, February, November and December and highest during May and June. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Fairbanks
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: June and July
- Warmest weather: June and July
- Most sunshine: May and June
- Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and April
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to May, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -23°C (-9°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Fairbanks
What is the best time to visit Fairbanks?
June and July typically offer the most optimal weather in Fairbanks. In contrast, January, February, March, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Fairbanks has a distinct dry season from October to May, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Fairbanks?
Daytime highs range from -15°C (5°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -23°C (-9°F) to 13°C (55°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Fairbanks get?
Annual rainfall is around 415 mm (16 in). July is the wettest month with 75 mm (3 in), while March is the driest with 13 mm (0.5 in).
How sunny is Fairbanks?
Fairbanks receives around 2,113 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 334 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 38 hours. Overall, Fairbanks enjoys abundant sunshine.
Fairbanks 3-Day Forecast
Fairbanks on the map
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