Portland (OR) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Portland.
Climate overview of Portland
Portland, in the state of Oregon, has a Mediterranean climate with warm, comfortable summers and mild winters. Winter temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing at night, but daytime conditions stay manageable. Rain is frequent in the colder months, while summers are much drier. Portland is known for its mix of natural scenery and urban culture, with easy access to forests, rivers, independent shops, and a strong food scene. Now, let’s explore all the climate details to give you a complete picture.
Portland Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Portland - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Portland
The climate in Portland is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in August, the warmest time of the year, to a chilly 7°C (45°F) during cooler months like December.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) in August to around 2°C (36°F) during December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Portland
Portland has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1050 mm (41 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Significant seasonal changes in precipitation occur throughout the year. In the wettest month, December it receives heavy rainfall, averaging 179 mm (7 in) of precipitation, recorded across 20 rainy days. In contrast, the driest month August brings less rainfall, with 11 mm (0.4 in) over 3 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Portland 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 Portland
Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Portland. While July receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 11.1 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 2.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Humidity in Portland by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Portland.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 83%. In July, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 63%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Portland
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 2 m/s (4 knots) in September and October to 4 m/s (8 knots) in January. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Portland
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: July and August
- Wettest months: January, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from July to August, with warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Portland
What is the best time to visit Portland?
May, June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Portland. In contrast, January, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Portland has a distinct dry season from July to August, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Portland?
Daytime highs range from 7°C (45°F) in December to 28°C (82°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 2°C (36°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Portland get?
Annual rainfall is around 1050 mm (41 in). December is the wettest month with 179 mm (7 in), while August is the driest with 11 mm (0.4 in).
How sunny is Portland?
Portland receives around 2,341 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 332 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 64 hours. Overall, Portland enjoys abundant sunshine.
Portland 3-Day Forecast
Portland on the map
Portland is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Kissimmee
33°C (91°F) Orlando33°C (91°F) Miami Beach32°C (90°F) Destin32°C (90°F) New York City
29°C (84°F) Big Bear Lake
27°C (81°F) Los Angeles
24°C (75°F) San Francisco22°C (72°F) 
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