Charleston Weather in May
May in Charleston typically sees daytime highs of 27°C (81°F) and nighttime lows of 19°C (66°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella.
Rainfall in Charleston in May
Expect around 8 days of rain based on historical data, with 73 mm (2.9 in) average. When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.
Temperature in Charleston in May
Charleston has perfect weather in May, with days reaching 27°C (81°F) and nights cooling to 19°C (66°F). This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. Nights drop to around 19°C (66°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.
Sunshine in Charleston in May
The days are predominantly sunny, with an estimated total of around 295 hours of sunshine. These sun-filled days are perfect for playing sports, visiting parks, or going for a bike ride.If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, April and May typically offer the best circumstances for Charleston.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Charleston's climate page.
Charleston Temperature in May
Min Temperature
19°C (66°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
27%
Precipitation
73 mm (2.9 in)
Rainy days
8 days
Humidity
72%
Sunshine
295 hours
Percentage Sunshine
69%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Charleston typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (81°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 20°C (68°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather for Charleston in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Charleston spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Charleston historical weather extremes in May
Based on weather observations in Charleston between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes during May.
- The hottest May day on record in Charleston reached 38°C (100°F) (May 27, 2019).
- The lowest daytime temperature in May was 12°C (54°F), recorded on May 7, 1992.
- Charleston registered its coldest May night on May 3, 1981, with temperatures dropping to 6°C (43°F).
Best Places in the United States of America in May
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in May →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Charleston in May
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in May. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.What To Do in Charleston in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Charleston's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Charleston climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
