Austin, Texas is known for its live music, outdoor festivals, food trucks, and vibrant culture—but the weather plays a big role in shaping the experience. From scorching summers to pleasantly mild winters, Austin’s climate can vary widely throughout the year.
This month-by-month guide breaks down Austin weather, including temperatures, rainfall, and travel tips, so you can plan the perfect trip—whether you’re chasing festivals, outdoor adventures, or a laid-back city escape.
Austin Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Weather Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 62°F (17°C) | 42°F (6°C) | Mild winter, cool mornings |
| February | 66°F (19°C) | 45°F (7°C) | Cool, early spring signs |
| March | 74°F (23°C) | 52°F (11°C) | Pleasant, occasional rain |
| April | 80°F (27°C) | 58°F (14°C) | Warm, wildflowers bloom |
| May | 86°F (30°C) | 66°F (19°C) | Warm, thunderstorms possible |
| June | 93°F (34°C) | 72°F (22°C) | Hot, sunny, dry |
| July | 97°F (36°C) | 74°F (23°C) | Very hot, intense sun |
| August | 98°F (37°C) | 75°F (24°C) | Hot, humid, dry |
| September | 91°F (33°C) | 70°F (21°C) | Warm, gradual cooldown |
| October | 82°F (28°C) | 60°F (16°C) | Ideal weather, dry |
| November | 71°F (22°C) | 50°F (10°C) | Mild, comfortable |
| December | 63°F (17°C) | 44°F (7°C) | Cool, festive, mild winter |
Austin Weather in January: Cool and Mild
- Average High: ~62°F (17°C)
- Average Low: ~42°F (6°C)
- Rainfall: Low to moderate
January is one of Austin’s coolest months, but it’s still mild compared to much of the U.S. Freezing temperatures are rare, and snowfall is extremely uncommon.
Why visit:
- Comfortable sightseeing weather
- Fewer crowds and lower hotel prices
What to pack:
- Light jacket, long sleeves, closed-toe shoes
Austin Weather in February: Early Signs of Spring
- Average High: ~66°F (19°C)
- Average Low: ~45°F (7°C)
February begins to warm up slightly, though occasional cold fronts can still pass through. Early wildflowers may start appearing toward the end of the month.
Why visit:
- Pleasant weather for walking and outdoor dining
- Romantic Valentine’s Day trips
Tip: Layering is key, as temperatures can fluctuate day to night.
Austin Weather in March: Spring Arrives
- Average High: ~74°F (23°C)
- Average Low: ~52°F (11°C)
March marks the start of spring and one of the most enjoyable months in Austin. The weather is warm but not hot, with more sunshine.
Why visit:
- South by Southwest (SXSW) festival
- Great outdoor conditions
Caution: SXSW brings large crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Austin Weather in April: Warm and Colorful
- Average High: ~80°F (27°C)
- Average Low: ~58°F (14°C)
April is beautiful in Austin, with blooming wildflowers—especially bluebonnets. Rain showers are more frequent but usually brief.
Why visit:
- Perfect balance of warmth and greenery
- Ideal for hiking and kayaking
Austin Weather in May: Hotter Days Begin
- Average High: ~86°F (30°C)
- Average Low: ~66°F (19°C)
May signals the transition toward summer. Days are warm to hot, and thunderstorms are more common.
Why visit:
- Pre-summer festivals
- Lively nightlife and patios
Tip: Bring sunscreen and be prepared for sudden rain.
Austin Weather in June: Summer Heat Sets In
- Average High: ~93°F (34°C)
- Average Low: ~72°F (22°C)
June is hot, sunny, and distinctly Texan. Humidity increases, making afternoons feel even warmer.
Why visit:
- Barton Springs Pool is perfect this time of year
- Long daylight hours
What to expect:
- Fewer tourists, but intense heat
Austin Weather in July: Peak Summer
- Average High: ~97°F (36°C)
- Average Low: ~74°F (23°C)
July is one of the hottest months in Austin. Outdoor activities are best planned early in the morning or after sunset.
Why visit (if you can handle heat):
- Summer deals on hotels
- Lively nightlife scene
Must-pack items:
- Sunscreen, hat, breathable clothing
Austin Weather in August: Hot and Humid
- Average High: ~98°F (37°C)
- Average Low: ~75°F (24°C)
August often feels similar to July—hot, humid, and intense. Rain is limited, and drought conditions can occur.
Best activities:
- Indoor attractions
- Swimming and water activities
Travel note: Not ideal for long outdoor sightseeing.
Austin Weather in September: Gradual Cool-Down
- Average High: ~91°F (33°C)
- Average Low: ~70°F (21°C)
September begins to cool slightly, though it still feels like summer for much of the month.
Why visit:
- Fewer crowds
- Start of fall events
Bonus: Bat watching at Congress Avenue Bridge is excellent this time of year.
Austin Weather in October: One of the Best Months to Visit
- Average High: ~82°F (28°C)
- Average Low: ~60°F (16°C)
October is widely considered the best month to visit Austin. The weather is warm, dry, and comfortable.
Why visit:
- Austin City Limits Music Festival
- Perfect outdoor weather
Austin Weather in November: Mild and Relaxing
- Average High: ~71°F (22°C)
- Average Low: ~50°F (10°C)
November brings cooler temperatures and a calm atmosphere. Fall colors appear, and rain decreases.
Why visit:
- Great weather without summer heat
- Ideal for cultural and food tourism
Austin Weather in December: Cool and Festive
- Average High: ~63°F (17°C)
- Average Low: ~44°F (7°C)
December is cool but rarely cold. Holiday lights and events add charm without harsh winter conditions.
Why visit:
- Festive atmosphere
- Comfortable winter escape
Best Time to Visit Austin
- Best overall months: March–April and October–November
- Best for festivals: March and October
- Best for budget travel: January, February, July, and August
Austin Weather FAQs
- What is the best month to visit Austin?
October is widely considered the best month due to warm days, cool nights, and low rainfall. - What is the hottest month in Austin?
August is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 98°F (37°C). - What is the coldest month in Austin?
January is usually the coldest month, though temperatures rarely drop below freezing. - Does Austin get snow?
Snow is very rare in Austin and usually light when it occurs. - When is Austin’s rainy season?
Rainfall is most common in May and June, often from short but heavy thunderstorms. - Is summer in Austin too hot for tourists?
Summers can be very hot, but visitors can still enjoy indoor attractions and swimming spots. - What should I pack for a summer trip to Austin?
Light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable sandals are essential. - What should I pack for winter in Austin?
A light jacket, long pants, and layers are usually enough. - Is Austin humid year-round?
Humidity is highest in summer, while spring and fall are more comfortable. - Are there hurricanes in Austin?
Austin is inland, so hurricanes are rare, though remnants can bring heavy rain. - What months are best for outdoor activities?
March, April, October, and November offer the most comfortable weather. - Is fall a good time to visit Austin?
Yes, fall has pleasant temperatures and popular events like Austin City Limits. - Does Austin experience extreme weather?
Extreme heat waves and occasional thunderstorms are the most common extremes. - How hot does Austin get in July?
July temperatures often reach 97°F (36°C) or higher during heat waves. - Is spring allergy season bad in Austin?
Yes, spring allergies can be strong due to pollen from oak and cedar trees. - Does Austin have mild winters?
Yes, winters are generally mild compared to most U.S. cities. - What is the driest month in Austin?
July and August are usually the driest months. - Is Austin weather good for festivals?
Spring and fall weather are ideal for outdoor festivals and events. - Does Austin have a lot of sunshine?
Yes, Austin enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year, especially in summer. - Can I swim year-round in Austin?
Natural springs like Barton Springs stay cool year-round, but swimming is most popular from late spring to early fall.
Final Thoughts
Austin’s weather can dramatically shape your travel experience. While summers are extremely hot, spring and fall offer near-perfect conditions for exploring the city’s music scene, parks, and food culture. By choosing the right month—and packing accordingly—you can enjoy everything Austin has to offer.