Salem (MA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Salem.
Climate overview of Salem
Salem, Massachusetts, United States of America, sees big temperature differences between seasons, with July peaking at 28°C (82°F) and January dropping to 3°C (37°F).
With around 1255 mm (49 in) of annual rain/snowfall, Salem has a notably wet climate. The wettest month is December. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 10.0 hours of daily sunshine.
Salem Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Salem — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Salem
Visitors to Salem can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 28°C (82°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 3°C (37°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) in July to -6°C (21°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Salem
Salem is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1255 mm (49 in). Salem experiences moderate seasonal variation in snow/rainfall, with monthly averages ranging from 130 mm (5.1 in) in December, the wettest month, and 77 mm (3 in) in September, the driest month. For more details, please visit our Salem 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 Salem
Salem can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of May under a blue sky, with approximately 10.0 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, 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 Salem
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 4°C (39°F) in February to 20°C (68°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Salem by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Salem.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 72%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 62%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Salem
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 5 m/s (10 knots) in June, July, August and September to 7 m/s (14 knots) in January, February, March and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Salem
The weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 77 mm (3 in) and 127 mm (5 in). Planning your next adventure but unsure where to go? Our climate tool suggests perfect locations tailored to your preferred weather conditions. Discover your ideal travel destination with our weather planner.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Salem
What is the best time to visit Salem?
August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Salem. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Salem?
Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 28°C (82°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -6°C (21°F) to 18°C (64°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Salem get?
Annual rainfall is around 1255 mm (49 in). December is the wettest month with 130 mm (5.1 in), while September is the driest with 77 mm (3 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.
How sunny is Salem?
Salem receives around 2,665 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 301 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, Salem enjoys abundant sunshine.
Salem 3-Day Forecast
Salem (MA) 3-Day Forecast
Salem on the map
Salem is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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