New Bedford (MA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit New Bedford.

Climate overview of New Bedford

New Bedford, Massachusetts, United States of America, experiences significant temperature variation throughout the year. Summers bring daytime highs of 28°C (82°F) in July, while winters cool to 4°C (39°F) in January.

The city receives considerable rain/snowfall, with around 1296 mm (51 in) annually. December is the wettest month. It has warm summers and cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 9.7 hours of sunshine per day.

New Bedford Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in New Bedford - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in New Bedford

Depending on the time of the year, temperatures range from comfortable to chilly in New Bedford. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in July to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in the coolest month, January.

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 New Bedford

New Bedford has a relatively rain/snowy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1296 mm (51 in) of rain/snowfall annually. Precipitation levels in New Bedford remain relatively steady throughout the year. December has the most rain, with 137 mm (5.4 in) over 13 days. In the driest month September, this drops slightly to 95 mm (3.7 in), making the city's climate fairly predictable. For more details, please visit our New Bedford Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in New Bedford

For those who appreciate different seasons, New Bedford serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 9.7 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in November, offering only 4.9 hours of daily sunlight.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Providence, the United States of America (44 KM, 27 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Providence, the United States of America (44 KM, 27 Miles).

Humidity in New Bedford by Month

Best Time to Visit New Bedford

Conditions in New Bedford are generally most comfortable in July, August and September. They are typically least comfortable in January, February, March, November and December.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Best overall: July, August and September
  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: June and July
  • Fewest rainy days: August and September
  • Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in New Bedford

What is the best time to visit New Bedford?

July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in New Bedford. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. New Bedford has warm summers and cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in New Bedford?

Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in January to 28°C (82°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 New Bedford get?

Annual rainfall is around 1296 mm (51 in). December is the wettest month with 137 mm (5.4 in), while September is the driest with 95 mm (3.7 in).

How sunny is New Bedford?

New Bedford receives around 2,598 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 290 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 147 hours. Overall, New Bedford enjoys abundant sunshine.

New Bedford 3-Day Forecast

New Bedford (MA) 3-Day Forecast

New Bedford on the map

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