Lancaster (PA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Lancaster.
Climate overview of Lancaster
Temperatures in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States of America, vary greatly throughout the year. July is the hottest month at 30°C (86°F), while February is the coldest at 4°C (39°F).
The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1149 mm (45 in) annually. October is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in July, when the city sees around 10.3 hours of sunshine per day.
Lancaster Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Lancaster — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Lancaster
The climate in Lancaster is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 30°C (86°F) in July to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in the coolest month, February.
Nights vary from 19°C (66°F) in July to around -5°C (23°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Lancaster
Lancaster has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1149 mm (45 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Lancaster offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month October (134 mm (5.3 in)) and the driest month February (66 mm (2.6 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our Lancaster 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 Lancaster
For those who appreciate different seasons, Lancaster serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 10.3 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, 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
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Lancaster by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Lancaster.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 73%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 59%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Lancaster
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Lancaster
What is the best time to visit Lancaster?
May and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Lancaster. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Lancaster?
Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in February to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Lancaster get?
Annual rainfall is around 1149 mm (45 in). October is the wettest month with 134 mm (5.3 in), while February is the driest with 66 mm (2.6 in).
How sunny is Lancaster?
Lancaster receives around 2,609 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 310 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 126 hours. Overall, Lancaster enjoys abundant sunshine.
Lancaster 3-Day Forecast
Lancaster (PA) 3-Day Forecast
Lancaster on the map
Lancaster is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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