Portland (ME) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Portland.
Climate overview of Portland
Portland, Maine, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 26°C (79°F) and January dropping to 0°C (32°F).
Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 1415 mm (56 in) per year. June is the wettest month and January the driest. The city also experiences warm summers and very cold winters. July is the sunniest month, averaging 9.3 hours of sunshine per day.
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
Visitors to Portland can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold 0°C (32°F) during cooler months like January.
At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 17°C (63°F) in July to around -9°C (16°F) during January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Portland
Portland is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1415 mm (56 in). While rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. June brings wetter days averaging 156 mm (6.1 in) of precipitation, spread over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January experiences a drier climate, with about 87 mm (3.4 in) of snowfall spread across 11 snowy 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 9.3 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 4.7 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 Portland
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 3°C (37°F) in March to 18°C (64°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Portland by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Portland.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 77%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 65%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
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: June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Warmest water temperature: August, although the water may still feel cool.
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -9°C (16°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Portland
What is the best time to visit Portland?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Portland. In contrast, January, February, March, April, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Portland has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Portland?
Daytime highs range from 0°C (32°F) in January to 26°C (79°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -9°C (16°F) to 17°C (63°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Portland get?
Annual rainfall is around 1415 mm (56 in). June is the wettest month with 156 mm (6.1 in), while January is the driest with 87 mm (3.4 in).
How sunny is Portland?
Portland receives around 2,497 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 278 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 140 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
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24°C (75°F) San Francisco22°C (72°F) 
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