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Philadelphia Weather in October

October in Philadelphia brings pleasant temperatures, with highs of 20°C (68°F) and nights dropping to 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is on the higher side this month, averaging around 118 mm (4.6 in), so keep a rain jacket handy.

Rainfall in Philadelphia in October

Expect around 11 days of rain based on historical data, with 118 mm (4.6 in) average. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.

Temperature in Philadelphia in October

If you're visiting Philadelphia in October, expect highs of 20°C (68°F) and overnight lows around 10°C (50°F). A light jacket or extra layer can be useful, especially outside the warmest hours of the day. Nights cool down to 10°C (50°F), so a light jacket or extra layer is useful once the sun goes down. On the plus side, the cooler nights make for comfortable sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Philadelphia in October

With approximately 200 hours of sunshine, the days are filled with clear skies. It makes it a perfect month for being outside.

Average water temperature in October

With water at 18°C (64°F), swimming is comfortable for most people. It feels refreshing rather than cold, though it depends a bit on personal preference.

If you prefer enjoying temperate temperatures and rain-free days, May typically offers the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Philadelphia Temperature in October

Min Temperature
10°C (50°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Water Temperature
18°C (64°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
118 mm (4.6 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
71%
Sunshine
200 hours
Percentage Sunshine
59%

Philadelphia Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Philadelphia - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Philadelphia typically drop from around 22°C (72°F) at the start of October to approximately 16°C (61°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 6°C (43°F) to 13°C (55°F).

Average temperatures in October

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 October

Historical weather records for Philadelphia in October

Browse day-by-day weather records for Philadelphia spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Philadelphia historical weather extremes in October

Our historical data for Philadelphia spans 1976 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.

  • The hottest October day on record in Philadelphia reached 34°C (93°F) (October 2, 2019).
  • The coldest October day was on October 30, 2002, with a maximum of 5°C (41°F).
  • Nighttime temperatures dropped to -2°C (28°F) on October 31, 1988, marking the coldest October night on record.

Best Places in the United States of America in October

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 October →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Philadelphia in October

Comfortable temperatures call for an easy wardrobe in October. Pack summer basics like t-shirts and shorts, but include a light jacket for cooler moments. A pair of comfortable walking shoes is essential. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Expect water temperatures of around 18°C (64°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Philadelphia in October

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    6/10
  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Philadelphia 3-Day Forecast

Popular in October

Where to go in October - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.