Durham (NC) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Durham.
Climate overview of Durham
Durham, North Carolina, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 32°C (90°F) and January dropping to 10°C (50°F).
Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1218 mm (48 in) per year. September is the wettest month and January the driest. The city also experiences very warm summers and cold winters. The most sunshine falls in June, with an average of 8.9 hours of daily sunshine.
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
Visitors to Durham can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 32°C (90°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 10°C (50°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) in July to around -2°C (28°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Durham
Durham is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1218 mm (48 in). While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. September brings wetter days averaging 140 mm (5.5 in) of precipitation, spread over 9 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January experiences a drier climate, with about 67 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days. 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
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Durham. While June receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 8.9 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce 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 Durham by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Durham.
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 Durham
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April and October
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June and July
- Seasonal pattern: Very warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -2°C (28°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Durham
What is the best time to visit Durham?
April and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Durham. In contrast, January and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Durham has very warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Durham?
Daytime highs range from 10°C (50°F) in January to 32°C (90°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -2°C (28°F) to 21°C (70°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Durham get?
Annual rainfall is around 1218 mm (48 in). September is the wettest month with 140 mm (5.5 in), while January is the driest with 67 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is Durham?
Durham 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, Durham enjoys abundant sunshine.
Durham 3-Day Forecast
Durham (NC) 3-Day Forecast
Durham on the map
Durham is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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