Fort Collins (CO) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Fort Collins.
Climate overview of Fort Collins
The climate in Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 31°C (88°F) in July to 5°C (41°F) in December.
The city has a relatively dry climate, receiving around 404 mm (16 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It does experience a distinct dry season from August to March. May is the wettest month and January the driest. Sunshine peaks in July, when the city sees around 10.7 hours of sunshine per day.
Fort Collins Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Fort Collins — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in July to a chilly 5°C (41°F) in December.
Nighttime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in July to -10°C (14°F) in December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Fort Collins
Fort Collins typically sees modest rain/snowfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 404 mm (16 in). The seasons in Fort Collins bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, May, receives moderate rainfall, with an average of 71 mm (2.8 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, January, experiences much less snow/rainfall, totaling 9.5 mm (0.4 in) over 3 snowy/rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.7 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 5.9 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
Humidity in Fort Collins by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Fort Collins.
The city experiences its highest humidity in March, reaching 57%. In October, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 51%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Fort Collins
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Fort Collins
What is the best time to visit Fort Collins?
May, June and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Fort Collins. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Fort Collins has a distinct dry season from August to March.
What temperatures can I expect in Fort Collins?
Daytime highs range from 5°C (41°F) in December to 31°C (88°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -10°C (14°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Fort Collins get?
Annual rainfall is around 404 mm (16 in). May is the wettest month with 71 mm (2.8 in), while January is the driest with 9.5 mm (0.4 in).
How sunny is Fort Collins?
Fort Collins receives around 3,012 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 320 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 178 hours. Overall, Fort Collins enjoys abundant sunshine.
Fort Collins 3-Day Forecast
Fort Collins (CO) 3-Day Forecast
Fort Collins on the map
Fort Collins is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Yosemite National Park is definitely worth a visit
Vast forests, blue lakes, towering sequoias, and majestic waterfalls hint at the beauty of Yosemite National Park—a true natural masterpiece.
The 10 most alternative cities in the United States
Discover the top 10 fun and alternative U.S. cities rich in art, culture, and adventure. From Portland's hippy charm to Sedona's stunning landscapes.
Sedona: Explore Majestic Red Rock Landscapes
A picturesque artists' town surrounded by red rocks and known for its spirituality, vortex energy, and stunning hikes like Cathedral Rock.
10 most idyllic villages to visit in the United States
Discover 10 idyllic villages in the USA, from California to Vermont. Explore their unique charm, rich history, stunning nature, and vibrant arts scenes.