Chapel Hill (NC) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Chapel Hill.
Climate overview of Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 32°C (90°F) in July, while winters cool to 10°C (50°F) in January.
With around 1213 mm (48 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Chapel Hill has a notably wet climate. The wettest month is September. Sunshine peaks in June, when the city sees around 8.9 hours of sunshine per day.
Chapel Hill Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Chapel Hill — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Chapel Hill
Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from very warm to chilly in Chapel Hill. Average daytime temperatures reach a very warm 32°C (90°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 10°C (50°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 20°C (68°F) in July to -1°C (30°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1213 mm (48 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Chapel Hill experiences moderate seasonal variation in rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 136 mm (5.4 in) in September, the wettest month, and 71 mm (2.8 in) in January, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of June under a blue sky, with approximately 8.9 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 5.2 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Chapel Hill by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Chapel Hill.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 78%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 61%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Chapel Hill
Rainfall during this time ranges from 82 mm (3.2 in) in October to 136 mm (5.4 in) in September. This means you can expect a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Chapel Hill
What is the best time to visit Chapel Hill?
April and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Chapel Hill. In contrast, January and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Chapel Hill?
Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 32°C (90°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -1°C (30°F) to 20°C (68°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Chapel Hill get?
Annual rainfall is around 1213 mm (48 in). September is the wettest month with 136 mm (5.4 in), while January is the driest with 71 mm (2.8 in).
How sunny is Chapel Hill?
Chapel Hill receives around 2,600 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 267 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 157 hours. Overall, Chapel Hill enjoys abundant sunshine.
Chapel Hill 3-Day Forecast
Chapel Hill (NC) 3-Day Forecast
Chapel Hill on the map
Chapel Hill is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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