Sydney Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Sydney.
Climate overview of Sydney
Summer in Sydney starts in December and lasts until the end of March. In the summer months it is hot and the maximum average temperatures are between 25°C (77°F) and 27°C (81°F). In recent years heat waves and drought have become more common. July is the coldest month with an average of 18°C (64°F) in the day and the temperature is almost always above zero at night.
The best time to go to Sydney is in spring. In the months September and October it is quite dry and it is pleasantly warm without getting to hot. Sydney has 105 days of clear days a year making it a sunny destination.
Sydney Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Sydney - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Sydney
In Sydney, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in January, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 18°C (64°F) during cooler months like July.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) in January to around 11°C (52°F) during July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Sydney
Generally, Sydney experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 897 mm (35 in) yearly. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. February brings wetter days averaging 110 mm (4.3 in) of precipitation, spread over 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month September experiences a drier climate, with about 53 mm (2.1 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Sydney 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 Sydney
While the amount of sunshine in Sydney varies throughout the year, all seasons offer their own charm. Enjoy up to 8.6 hours of daily sun in December, and experience slightly darker atmosphere in May, with about 6.0 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
Water Temperature in Sydney
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 16°C (61°F) in August to 21°C (70°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Sydney by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Sydney.
The city experiences its highest humidity in February, reaching 62%. In August, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 48%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Sydney
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 4 m/s (8 knots). It is lower in March, April, May, June, July, August and September and higher in October. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Sydney
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, March, April, May, September, October, November and December
- Warmest weather: January, February, March and December
- Most sunshine: October and December
- Fewest rainy days: July, August and September
- Best for swimming: January, February, March, April and December.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Sydney
What is the best time to visit Sydney?
January, March, April, May, September, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Sydney. In contrast, February, June, July and August tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Sydney?
Daytime highs range from 18°C (64°F) in July to 26°C (79°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 11°C (52°F) to 20°C (68°F).
How much rain does Sydney get?
Annual rainfall is around 897 mm (35 in). February is the wettest month with 110 mm (4.3 in), while September is the driest with 53 mm (2.1 in).
How sunny is Sydney?
Sydney receives around 2,644 hours of sunshine per year. December is the sunniest month with 257 hours, while May is the cloudiest with just 180 hours. Overall, Sydney enjoys abundant sunshine.
Sydney 3-Day Forecast
Sydney on the map
Sydney is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
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