Phoenix, Arizona—often called “The Valley of the Sun”—is famous for its desert climate, dramatic landscapes, and nearly year-round sunshine. With more than 300 sunny days annually, Phoenix is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, golfers, hikers, and winter sun-seekers.
However, Phoenix weather can vary significantly by month, especially when it comes to heat levels. Knowing what to expect each month will help you plan the perfect trip—whether you want mild sightseeing weather or don’t mind extreme summer heat.
Below is a month-by-month breakdown of Phoenix weather, plus travel tips for each season.
Phoenix Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Travel Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 67°F (19°C) | 46°F (8°C) | Great for outdoor activities |
| February | 71°F (22°C) | 49°F (9°C) | Peak tourist season |
| March | 77°F (25°C) | 54°F (12°C) | Ideal hiking weather |
| April | 85°F (29°C) | 60°F (16°C) | Perfect spring travel |
| May | 95°F (35°C) | 69°F (21°C) | Outdoor activities early morning |
| June | 104°F (40°C) | 78°F (26°C) | Budget-friendly travel |
| July | 106°F (41°C) | 83°F (28°C) | Monsoon season |
| August | 104°F (40°C) | 82°F (28°C) | Best for indoor activities |
| September | 100°F (38°C) | 76°F (24°C) | Late month is better |
| October | 89°F (32°C) | 65°F (18°C) | Excellent weather |
| November | 76°F (24°C) | 54°F (12°C) | Ideal for sightseeing |
| December | 67°F (19°C) | 46°F (8°C) | Popular winter escape |
January
Average High: 67°F (19°C)
Average Low: 46°F (8°C)
January is one of the best months to visit Phoenix. Days are mild and sunny, while nights can be cool.
What to expect:
- Pleasant daytime temperatures
- Minimal rainfall
- Cool evenings
Best for: Hiking, golfing, sightseeing, outdoor dining
Travel tip: Pack layers—light jackets are useful after sunset.
February
Average High: 71°F (22°C)
Average Low: 49°F (9°C)
February continues the comfortable winter trend and is a peak tourist month.
What to expect:
- Warm afternoons
- Cool mornings
- Occasional light rain
Best for: Festivals, desert tours, spring training baseball
Travel tip: Book accommodations early due to high demand.
March
Average High: 77°F (25°C)
Average Low: 54°F (12°C)
March marks the start of spring and warmer days.
What to expect:
- Ideal outdoor temperatures
- Low humidity
- Very little rain
Best for: Hiking Camelback Mountain, outdoor events
Travel tip: Sunscreen becomes essential as UV levels rise.
April
Average High: 85°F (29°C)
Average Low: 60°F (16°C)
April is warm but not overwhelming, making it another favorite for travelers.
What to expect:
- Warm, dry days
- Cool nights
- Clear skies
Best for: Poolside relaxation, desert photography
Travel tip: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
May
Average High: 95°F (35°C)
Average Low: 69°F (21°C)
May signals the beginning of Phoenix’s famous heat.
What to expect:
- Hot afternoons
- Very low humidity
- Little to no rainfall
Best for: Early-morning hikes, resort stays
Travel tip: Plan outdoor activities before 10 a.m.
June
Average High: 104°F (40°C)
Average Low: 78°F (26°C)
June is extremely hot, but crowds are smaller.
What to expect:
- Intense heat
- Dry air
- Long sunny days
Best for: Budget travel, indoor attractions
Travel tip: Choose hotels with pools and strong air conditioning.
July
Average High: 106°F (41°C)
Average Low: 83°F (28°C)
July is one of the hottest months, but it also brings monsoon season.
What to expect:
- Extreme heat
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Higher humidity
Best for: Resort deals, dramatic desert storms
Travel tip: Watch weather alerts for dust storms (haboobs).
August
Average High: 104°F (40°C)
Average Low: 82°F (28°C)
August remains very hot, with continued monsoon activity.
What to expect:
- Hot, humid conditions
- Occasional heavy rain
- Thunderstorms in the afternoons
Best for: Indoor activities, spa vacations
Travel tip: Avoid hiking during storm hours.
September
Average High: 100°F (38°C)
Average Low: 76°F (24°C)
September begins to cool slightly, though heat is still intense early in the month.
What to expect:
- Hot days
- Fewer storms
- Gradual cooling
Best for: Shoulder-season travel deals
Travel tip: Late September is more comfortable than early September.
October
Average High: 89°F (32°C)
Average Low: 65°F (18°C)
October is when Phoenix truly becomes pleasant again.
What to expect:
- Warm, sunny days
- Cool evenings
- Very low rain
Best for: Outdoor adventures, fall festivals
Travel tip: Ideal balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
November
Average High: 76°F (24°C)
Average Low: 54°F (12°C)
November offers mild temperatures and beautiful desert scenery.
What to expect:
- Comfortable days
- Cool nights
- Clear skies
Best for: Hiking, sightseeing, golf
Travel tip: Bring a light sweater for evenings.
December
Average High: 67°F (19°C)
Average Low: 46°F (8°C)
December is cool, calm, and popular with winter travelers.
What to expect:
- Mild daytime weather
- Cool nights
- Festive atmosphere
Best for: Holiday travel, outdoor dining, shopping
Travel tip: Pack warm layers for nighttime activities.
Best Time to Visit Phoenix
- Best overall weather: February–April and October–November
- Best for budget travelers: June–September
- Best for outdoor activities: Winter and early spring
20 FAQs about Phoenix weather
1. What is the best month to visit Phoenix?
The best months to visit Phoenix are February through April and October through November, when temperatures are warm but not extreme.
2. What is the hottest month in Phoenix?
July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 106°F (41°C).
3. What is the coldest month in Phoenix?
January is usually the coldest month, especially at night, with lows around 46°F (8°C).
4. Does Phoenix get rain?
Yes, but very little. Most rainfall occurs during July and August due to the monsoon season.
5. What is monsoon season in Phoenix?
Monsoon season runs from July to mid-September, bringing thunderstorms, lightning, and dust storms.
6. Is Phoenix weather good for hiking year-round?
Hiking is best from October to April. Summer hiking is dangerous due to extreme heat.
7. How hot does Phoenix get in summer?
Summer temperatures often exceed 105°F (40°C) and can reach 115°F (46°C) during heat waves.
8. Does Phoenix ever get snow?
Snow in Phoenix is extremely rare and usually limited to nearby mountain areas.
9. Is Phoenix humid?
Most of the year, Phoenix is very dry. Humidity increases briefly during the monsoon season.
10. What should I pack for Phoenix in winter?
Pack light layers, long sleeves for evenings, and comfortable walking shoes.
11. What should I pack for Phoenix in summer?
Bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and stay hydrated.
12. Are evenings cool in Phoenix?
Yes, especially from November to March, evenings can feel cool after sunset.
13. Is Phoenix weather good for golf?
Yes. Winter and spring offer ideal golfing weather with mild temperatures.
14. What is the cheapest month to visit Phoenix?
June through September are usually the cheapest due to extreme heat.
15. Does Phoenix have all four seasons?
Phoenix experiences mild winters, hot summers, and short spring and fall seasons.
16. Is Phoenix safe to visit during summer?
Yes, but travelers must take heat precautions, avoid midday outdoor activities, and drink plenty of water.
17. When does Phoenix start cooling down?
Temperatures begin to cool in late September, with noticeable relief by October.
18. Are dust storms common in Phoenix?
Dust storms, also called haboobs, occur mainly during the monsoon season.
19. Is Phoenix weather good for outdoor dining?
Outdoor dining is most comfortable from October through April.
20. How many sunny days does Phoenix have?
Phoenix averages over 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Phoenix offers year-round sunshine, but choosing the right month can make a big difference in your travel experience. If you love warm weather without extreme heat, spring and fall are ideal. If you’re chasing deals and don’t mind the heat, summer offers excellent value—just plan wisely.
No matter when you visit, Phoenix’s desert beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures are always waiting.