Philadelphia, the historic heart of the United States, offers something special in every season—from blooming spring gardens to snowy winter streets. Understanding Philadelphia weather by month can help travelers choose the best time to visit, pack appropriately, and plan activities with confidence. This guide breaks down what to expect throughout the year.
January is the coldest month in Philadelphia. Snowfall is possible, though not constant. Tourist crowds are minimal, making it a good time for museum visits, indoor attractions, and budget travelers who don’t mind winter weather.
Best for: Museums, history lovers, off-season deals
February remains cold but starts to show slight warming trends. Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day bring small tourist spikes, but the city is still relatively quiet.
Best for: Romantic getaways, cultural attractions
March: Early Signs of Spring
Average temperature: 38–54°F (3–12°C)
Weather highlights: Unpredictable, mix of rain and mild days
March marks the transition from winter to spring. Weather can change quickly, with sunny afternoons followed by cool evenings. Light jackets and layers are essential.
Best for: Flexible travelers, early spring explorers
April is a beautiful time to visit Philadelphia. Parks and gardens begin to bloom, and outdoor walking tours become popular. Rain is common, so an umbrella is a must.
May is one of the best months to visit Philadelphia. The weather is comfortable, flowers are in full bloom, and festivals and outdoor events are common.
Best for: First-time visitors, outdoor dining, festivals
June brings summer warmth without extreme heat. While humidity begins to rise, it’s still a great time for outdoor activities and evening events.
Best for: City festivals, walking tours, nightlife
July: Hot and Humid
Average temperature: 71–89°F (22–32°C)
Weather highlights: High humidity, heat waves, thunderstorms
July is hot and often humid. Independence Day celebrations are a major highlight, but daytime sightseeing can be uncomfortable without breaks and hydration.
Best for: Festivals, history events, evening activities
August: Peak Summer Heat
Average temperature: 70–87°F (21–31°C)
Weather highlights: Hot, humid, occasional storms
August remains very warm, and some locals head out of town. Tourist attractions are less crowded, but outdoor activities are best planned for mornings or evenings.
November is quieter, with fewer tourists and cooler weather. Thanksgiving festivities add charm, but travelers should prepare for brisk conditions.
Best for: Budget travelers, cultural experiences
December: Festive but Cold
Average temperature: 32–45°F (0–7°C)
Weather highlights: Cold, possible snow, holiday atmosphere
December transforms Philadelphia into a festive destination with holiday markets, decorations, and seasonal events. Snow is possible, adding charm but also travel delays.
Best for: Holiday travelers, winter city vibes
Philadelphia Temperature by Month Table
Month
Avg High
Avg Low
Weather Highlights
January
40°F (4°C)
28°F (-2°C)
Cold, possible snow
February
43°F (6°C)
30°F (-1°C)
Cold, light snow or rain
March
54°F (12°C)
38°F (3°C)
Unpredictable, rain & sun
April
65°F (18°C)
47°F (8°C)
Mild, spring rain
May
75°F (24°C)
57°F (14°C)
Pleasant, blooming city
June
84°F (29°C)
66°F (19°C)
Warm, occasional storms
July
89°F (32°C)
71°F (22°C)
Hot, humid
August
87°F (31°C)
70°F (21°C)
Hot, humid, storms
September
80°F (27°C)
62°F (17°C)
Warm, dry, pleasant
October
68°F (20°C)
50°F (10°C)
Cool, fall foliage
November
56°F (13°C)
41°F (5°C)
Cool, occasional rain
December
45°F (7°C)
32°F (0°C)
Cold, festive, possible snow
Best Time to Visit Philadelphia
Best overall weather: May, September, and October
Best budget travel: January, February, and November
Best for festivals: June and July
Philadelphia Weather FAQs
What is the best month to visit Philadelphia? May, September, and October are the best months due to mild temperatures and low humidity.
What is the coldest month in Philadelphia? January is typically the coldest month, with average lows around 28°F (-2°C).
What is the hottest month in Philadelphia? July is usually the hottest month, with average highs near 89°F (32°C).
Does Philadelphia get snow? Yes, Philadelphia gets snow mainly from December through February, though heavy snowfall is not guaranteed every year.
Is Philadelphia weather humid? Summers (June–August) can be humid, while spring and fall are generally comfortable.
What is the rainiest month in Philadelphia? April and August often see higher rainfall, mostly from spring showers or summer thunderstorms.
Is Philadelphia weather good in spring? Yes, spring (April–May) offers mild temperatures and blooming parks, making it a popular travel season.
How hot does Philadelphia get in summer? Summer temperatures often reach the high 80s to low 90s°F (30–34°C), especially in July.
Is fall a good time to visit Philadelphia? Absolutely. Fall offers cooler weather, fall foliage, and ideal conditions for walking tours.
What should I pack for Philadelphia in winter? Pack a warm coat, gloves, scarf, waterproof boots, and layered clothing.
Does Philadelphia experience extreme weather? Extreme weather is rare, but heat waves and winter storms can occasionally occur.
Is September a good month to visit Philadelphia? Yes, September has pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and fewer crowds.
How cold does Philadelphia get at night? Winter nights can drop below freezing, especially in January and February.
Is Philadelphia weather good for walking tours? Yes, especially in April, May, September, and October.
Does Philadelphia have a hurricane season? Philadelphia is inland, but remnants of hurricanes can bring heavy rain in late summer or early fall.
What is the warmest spring month in Philadelphia? May is the warmest spring month, with average highs around 75°F (24°C).
Are summers in Philadelphia crowded with tourists? Yes, especially in July due to Independence Day celebrations.
Is winter travel to Philadelphia budget-friendly? Yes, winter months often offer lower hotel prices and fewer tourists.
What month has the best weather for outdoor dining? May and September are ideal for outdoor dining due to comfortable temperatures.
Does Philadelphia weather change quickly? Yes, especially in spring and fall, so checking forecasts and packing layers is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia’s weather changes dramatically throughout the year, offering unique experiences in every season. Whether you prefer mild spring days, vibrant summer festivals, or cozy winter charm, knowing Philadelphia weather by month helps you plan the perfect trip.
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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