Durham (NH) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Durham.
Climate overview of Durham
The climate in Durham, New Hampshire, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 28°C (82°F) in July to 1°C (34°F) in January.
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1252 mm (49 in) annually. June is the wettest month. It has warm summers and very cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 9.8 hours of sunshine per day.
Durham Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Durham - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Durham
In Durham, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in July to a very cold 1°C (34°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 16°C (61°F) in July to around -9°C (16°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Durham
Durham experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1252 mm (49 in) of precipitation annually. Durham offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month June (128 mm (5 in)) and the driest month January (74 mm (2.9 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Durham 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 Durham
For those who appreciate different seasons, Durham serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 9.8 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in November, offering only 4.2 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Durham by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Durham.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 76%. In April, 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
Best Time to Visit Durham
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Seasonal pattern: warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -9°C (16°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Durham
What is the best time to visit Durham?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in Durham. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Durham has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Durham?
Daytime highs range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -9°C (16°F) to 16°C (61°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Durham get?
Annual rainfall is around 1252 mm (49 in). June is the wettest month with 128 mm (5 in), while January is the driest with 74 mm (2.9 in).
How sunny is Durham?
Durham receives around 2,512 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 295 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 127 hours. Overall, Durham enjoys abundant sunshine.
Durham 3-Day Forecast
Durham (NH) 3-Day Forecast
Durham on the map
Durham is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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