Cambridge (MA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Cambridge.
Climate overview of Cambridge
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 29°C (84°F) in July, while winters cool to 3°C (37°F) in January.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1239 mm (49 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has warm summers and cold winters. December is the wettest month. May is the sunniest month, averaging 10.0 hours of sunshine per day.
Cambridge Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Cambridge - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Cambridge
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in Cambridge. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July to a chilly 3°C (37°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in July to -7°C (19°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Cambridge
Cambridge has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1239 mm (49 in) of rain/snowfall annually. The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, December, sees around 133 mm (5.2 in) of snow/rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of snow/rain now and then. The driest month, September, still receives a respectable 81 mm (3.2 in) of rainfall. For more details, please visit our Cambridge 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 Cambridge
In Cambridge, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.0 hours in May. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 4.7 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in Cambridge
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 4°C (39°F) in February to 20°C (68°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Cambridge by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Cambridge.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 72%. In February, 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 Cambridge
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 5 m/s (10 knots) to 7 m/s (14 knots). It is lower in June, July, August and September and higher in January, February, March and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Cambridge
Each month is rated for comfortable sightseeing weather — mild temperatures and low rainfall. Tap a month for its full averages; your ideal time may differ for a beach or winter trip (see below).
- Best overall: May, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May and July
- Best for swimming: August, with water temperatures around 20°C (68°F).
- Climate seasons: warm summers and cold winters
- Best for winter weather: January, with freezing nights around -7°C (19°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Cambridge
What is the best time to visit Cambridge?
May, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Cambridge. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Cambridge has warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Cambridge?
Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -7°C (19°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Cambridge get?
Annual rainfall is around 1239 mm (49 in). December is the wettest month with 133 mm (5.2 in), while September is the driest with 81 mm (3.2 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is Cambridge?
Cambridge receives around 2,665 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 301 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, Cambridge enjoys abundant sunshine.
Cambridge 3-Day Forecast
Cambridge (MA) 3-Day Forecast
Cambridge on the map
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