Melbourne Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Melbourne.
Climate overview of Melbourne
Melbourne is a spectacular combination of old and new architecture, elegant streetscapes, ethnic communities and lavish parks and gardens. High season for holidays in Melbourne are dictated more by events than the weather, so it is wise to check what's on and book accommodation early. Weather-wise it is best not to travel to Melbourne in winter, when it is grey and a bit cold. The best season to holiday in Melbourne is autumn (March to May).
Melbourne Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Melbourne — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Melbourne
Visitors to Melbourne can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in January, the warmest time of the year, to a moderate 14°C (57°F) during cooler months like July.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) in January to around 7°C (45°F) during July.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Melbourne
Generally, Melbourne experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 690 mm (27 in) yearly. While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. September brings wetter days averaging 69 mm (2.7 in) of precipitation, spread over 10 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month March experiences a drier climate, with about 40 mm (1.6 in) of rainfall spread across 10 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Melbourne 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 Melbourne
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Melbourne. While January receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 9.2 hours, June marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.1 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
Water Temperature in Melbourne
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 13°C (55°F) in August to 17°C (63°F) in January.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Melbourne by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Melbourne.
The city experiences its highest humidity in June, reaching 64%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 44%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Melbourne
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December to 3 m/s (6 knots) in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Melbourne
The weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 40 mm (1.6 in) and 67 mm (2.6 in). Seeking the perfect travel destination for this year? We've created a tool that suggests locations matching your desired weather. Let our weather planner guide your travel decisions.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Melbourne
What is the best time to visit Melbourne?
January, February, March, April, October, November and December typically offer the most optimal weather in Melbourne. In contrast, May, June, July, August and September tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Melbourne?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in July to 26°C (79°F) in January. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Melbourne get?
Annual rainfall is around 690 mm (27 in). September is the wettest month with 69 mm (2.7 in), while March is the driest with 40 mm (1.6 in).
How sunny is Melbourne?
Melbourne receives around 2,383 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 276 hours, while June is the cloudiest with just 123 hours. Overall, Melbourne enjoys abundant sunshine.
Melbourne 3-Day Forecast
Melbourne 3-Day Forecast
Melbourne on the map
Melbourne is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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