Tucson (AZ) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Tucson.
Climate overview of Tucson
Temperatures in Tucson, Arizona, United States of America, vary greatly throughout the year. June is the hottest month at 39°C (102°F), while December is the coldest at 18°C (64°F).
The city tends toward dry conditions, with around 279 mm (11 in) of rainfall per year. It does, however, have a distinct dry season from October to June, with very hot summers and pleasant winters. May is the sunniest month, averaging 13.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Tucson Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Tucson - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Tucson
The climate in Tucson is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very hot 39°C (102°F) in June to a pleasant 18°C (64°F) in the coolest month, December.
Nights vary from 24°C (75°F) in June to around 4°C (39°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Tucson
With annual rainfall averaging 279 mm (11 in), Tucson maintains relatively low precipitation levels throughout the seasons. The climate in Tucson shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 73 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month May offers drier and sunnier days, with around 2.1 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall over a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our Tucson 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 Tucson
Tucson offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between May (13.4 hours daily) and December (8.2 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Tucson by Month
The relative humidity is low throughout the year in Tucson.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 50%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 21%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Tucson
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 3 m/s (6 knots). It is lower in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December and higher in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Tucson
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: January, February, March, April and November
- Warmest weather: June and July
- Most sunshine: May and June
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to June, with very hot summers and pleasant winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Tucson
What is the best time to visit Tucson?
January, February, March, April and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Tucson. In contrast, June, July, August and September tend to have less optimal conditions. Tucson has a distinct dry season from October to June, with very hot summers and pleasant winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Tucson?
Daytime highs range from 18°C (64°F) in December to 39°C (102°F) in June. Nighttime lows range from 4°C (39°F) to 24°C (75°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Tucson get?
Annual rainfall is around 279 mm (11 in). July is the wettest month with 73 mm (2.9 in), while May is the driest with 2.1 mm (0.1 in).
How sunny is Tucson?
Tucson receives around 3,806 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 401 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 246 hours. Overall, Tucson enjoys abundant sunshine.
Tucson 3-Day Forecast
Tucson on the map
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