Seattle (WA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Seattle.
Climate overview of Seattle
Winters in Seattle have an average maximum temperature of between 8°C (46°F) and 11°C (52°F), so snowfall is rare. Summers have an average maximum temperature of 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F).
The best time to travel to Seattle in Washington State is from May to September. During this period you have a pleasant temperature and almost no precipitation. The city can be a bit busy during this period so it is recommended to book a place to stay in advance.
Seattle Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Seattle - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Seattle
In Seattle, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in July. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a chilly 8°C (46°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 14°C (57°F) in July to 2°C (36°F) in December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Seattle
Seattle experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 1009 mm (40 in) of precipitation annually. Seattle can be quite wet during November, receiving approximately 166 mm (6.5 in) of precipitation over 20 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (July), you will experience much drier conditions, with 14 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation spread across 4 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Seattle 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 Seattle
Seattle can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 10.4 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 1.8 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
Humidity in Seattle by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Seattle.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 80%. In July, 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
Wind Speed in Seattle
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) to 5 m/s (10 knots). It is lower in February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December and higher in January and March. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Seattle
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
- Fewest rainy days: July and August
- Wettest months: January, February, March, October, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from June to August, with warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Seattle
What is the best time to visit Seattle?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Seattle. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Seattle has a distinct dry season from June to August, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Seattle?
Daytime highs range from 8°C (46°F) in December to 25°C (77°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 2°C (36°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Seattle get?
Annual rainfall is around 1009 mm (40 in). November is the wettest month with 166 mm (6.5 in), while July is the driest with 14 mm (0.6 in).
How sunny is Seattle?
Seattle receives around 2,171 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 312 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 54 hours. Overall, Seattle enjoys abundant sunshine.
Seattle 3-Day Forecast
Seattle on the map
Seattle 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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