New Orleans is a city that dances to its own rhythm—jazz in the streets, festivals year-round, and a culture unlike anywhere else in the U.S. But before you book your trip, it’s smart to understand the weather. With a humid subtropical climate, New Orleans can feel very different depending on the month you visit.
This complete month-by-month guide will help you decide the best time to go, what to pack, and what kind of experience to expect.
New Orleans Weather by Month
Month
Avg High °F (°C)
Avg Low °F (°C)
Weather Notes
January
80°F (27°C)
66°F (19°C)
Mild, slightly rainy, whale season
February
80°F (27°C)
66°F (19°C)
Comfortable, low crowds, breezy
March
81°F (27°C)
67°F (19°C)
Warmer days, less rain
April
83°F (28°C)
69°F (21°C)
Sunny, ideal weather
May
85°F (29°C)
71°F (22°C)
Warm, dry, great value
June
87°F (31°C)
73°F (23°C)
Hot, sunny, low rainfall
July
88°F (31°C)
74°F (23°C)
Peak summer, beach-perfect
August
88°F (31°C)
75°F (24°C)
Hottest month, humid
September
87°F (31°C)
74°F (23°C)
Fewer crowds, warm ocean
October
86°F (30°C)
73°F (23°C)
Pleasant, shoulder season
November
83°F (28°C)
71°F (22°C)
Mild, increasing rain
December
81°F (27°C)
68°F (20°C)
Cool evenings, festive
January: Cool and Comfortable
Average temperatures: 45–63°F (7–17°C)
January is one of the coolest months in New Orleans. The weather is generally mild, with low humidity and occasional rain. Snow is extremely rare. It’s a great time for sightseeing, walking tours, and enjoying the French Quarter without intense heat or crowds.
Travel tip: Pack light layers and a jacket for evenings.
February: Mild Weather & Mardi Gras
Average temperatures: 48–66°F (9–19°C)
February brings pleasant temperatures and rising excitement as Mardi Gras season peaks. Rainfall is moderate, and humidity remains low. This is one of the most popular months to visit.
Travel tip: Book accommodations early—prices spike during Mardi Gras.
March: Spring Begins
Average temperatures: 55–72°F (13–22°C)
March marks the start of spring, with warmer days and blooming gardens. The weather is ideal for outdoor festivals, river walks, and patio dining.
Travel tip: Bring a light rain jacket—spring showers can pop up.
April: One of the Best Months to Visit
Average temperatures: 61–78°F (16–26°C)
April offers near-perfect weather: warm but not too hot, with manageable humidity. Major events like the French Quarter Festival and Jazz & Heritage Festival make this a favorite month for travelers.
Travel tip: Comfortable walking shoes are a must—you’ll want to explore.
May: Warm and Lively
Average temperatures: 68–85°F (20–29°C)
May is warmer and more humid, but still enjoyable. Festivals continue, and the city feels vibrant. Rainfall increases slightly toward the end of the month.
Travel tip: Light, breathable clothing will keep you comfortable.
June: Summer Heat Arrives
Average temperatures: 73–90°F (23–32°C)
June signals the start of summer. Expect hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers. Hurricane season officially begins, though major storms are uncommon this early.
Travel tip: Plan indoor activities during midday heat.
July: Hot and Humid
Average temperatures: 75–92°F (24–33°C)
July is one of the hottest months in New Orleans. High humidity can make temperatures feel even warmer. Crowds are thinner, and hotel deals are easier to find.
Travel tip: Stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
August: Peak Heat & Low Crowds
Average temperatures: 75–92°F (24–33°C)
August is intensely hot and humid, with frequent rain and a higher hurricane risk. However, it’s also one of the least crowded months, making it appealing for budget travelers.
Travel tip: Consider travel insurance during hurricane season.
September: Cooling Slightly, Still Stormy
Average temperatures: 72–88°F (22–31°C)
September remains warm and humid, with the highest hurricane risk of the year. That said, the city begins to slow down, and prices stay low.
Travel tip: Monitor weather forecasts closely before your trip.
October: A Return to Comfort
Average temperatures: 62–80°F (17–27°C)
October is a fantastic time to visit. The heat eases, humidity drops, and festivals return. Hurricane risk decreases significantly by late October.
Travel tip: Perfect month for outdoor tours and cemetery walks.
November: Mild and Festive
Average temperatures: 52–70°F (11–21°C)
November brings crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons. It’s a quieter month, ideal for food lovers and cultural travelers.
Travel tip: Pack layers—temperatures can vary throughout the day.
December: Cool, Cozy, and Celebratory
Average temperatures: 47–65°F (8–18°C)
December is mild and festive, with holiday decorations and unique New Orleans–style celebrations. Rainfall is moderate, and crowds are lighter compared to Mardi Gras season.
Travel tip: Bring a light coat for evenings and river breezes.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
Best weather: March, April, October
Best festivals: February (Mardi Gras), April–May
Best budget travel: July–September (with heat and weather trade-offs)
FAQs about New Orleans weather
1. What is the best month to visit New Orleans for good weather?
March, April, and October offer the most comfortable temperatures with lower humidity and pleasant conditions.
2. What is the hottest month in New Orleans?
July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures often above 90°F (32°C) and high humidity.
3. What is the coldest month in New Orleans?
January is typically the coldest month, though temperatures are still relatively mild compared to most U.S. cities.
4. Does New Orleans get snow?
Snow in New Orleans is extremely rare and usually occurs only once every few decades.
5. When is hurricane season in New Orleans?
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk from August to September.
6. Is New Orleans very humid?
Yes, New Orleans has high humidity, especially from late spring through early fall.
7. What is the rainiest month in New Orleans?
August is often the rainiest month due to frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
8. Is April a good time to visit New Orleans?
Yes, April is one of the best months thanks to warm temperatures, low humidity, and major festivals.
9. How hot is New Orleans in summer?
Summer temperatures usually range from 90–95°F (32–35°C), and the heat index can feel much higher.
Yes, winter weather is mild and comfortable, ideal for sightseeing and walking tours.
12. Does New Orleans flood often?
Heavy rain can cause localized flooding, especially during summer storms or hurricanes.
13. What month has the least rain in New Orleans?
October and November typically have lower rainfall compared to summer months.
14. Is New Orleans too hot to visit in August?
It can be uncomfortable due to extreme heat and humidity, but fewer crowds and lower prices attract budget travelers.
15. What is the best month for festivals in New Orleans?
February (Mardi Gras) and April–May (Jazz Fest) are peak festival months.
16. Are evenings cooler in New Orleans?
Evenings are cooler in fall and winter, but summer nights remain warm and humid.
17. Does New Orleans have a dry season?
There is no true dry season, but fall and early spring are generally drier.
18. Is October a good month to visit New Orleans?
Yes, October has pleasant temperatures, fewer storms, and many outdoor events.
19. Can you visit New Orleans year-round?
Yes, New Orleans is a year-round destination, but weather conditions vary greatly by season.
20. What is the best budget month to visit New Orleans?
July through September usually offer the lowest hotel prices due to heat and hurricane season.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans is a destination you can visit year-round, but the weather plays a big role in shaping your experience. Whether you prefer cool walking weather, lively festivals, or budget-friendly travel, there’s a perfect month waiting for you.
Hi,
I'm Thanh Tung and I'm an avid nature enthusiast with an insatiable curiosity for the wonders of the natural world, I spends their time exploring the beauty and diversity of national parks. From majestic mountain ranges to serene desert landscapes, they are dedicated to uncovering the stories, history, and ecosystems of these protected areas
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