Scottsdale Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale is famous for its sunshine, luxury resorts, golf courses, and vibrant outdoor lifestyle. With more than 300 sunny days a year, it’s a year-round destination — but each season offers a different travel experience.
Quick Scottsdale Climate Overview
- Sunshine: 300+ days per year
- Rainfall: Minimal (most in July–August monsoon season)
- Summer Heat: Very high but dry
- Winter: Mild and sunny
Here’s a complete month-by-month guide to help you decide the best time to visit.
Scottsdale Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High °F (°C) | Avg Low °F (°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Avg Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 67°F (19°C) | 44°F (7°C) | 0.9 | 26 days |
| February | 71°F (22°C) | 47°F (8°C) | 0.8 | 25 days |
| March | 77°F (25°C) | 51°F (11°C) | 0.9 | 29 days |
| April | 86°F (30°C) | 58°F (14°C) | 0.3 | 30 days |
| May | 95°F (35°C) | 67°F (19°C) | 0.2 | 31 days |
| June | 104°F (40°C) | 76°F (24°C) | 0.1 | 30 days |
| July | 106°F (41°C) | 82°F (28°C) | 1.0 | 29 days |
| August | 104°F (40°C) | 81°F (27°C) | 1.1 | 27 days |
| September | 99°F (37°C) | 75°F (24°C) | 0.6 | 28 days |
| October | 88°F (31°C) | 62°F (17°C) | 0.6 | 29 days |
| November | 76°F (24°C) | 50°F (10°C) | 0.6 | 27 days |
| December | 66°F (19°C) | 44°F (7°C) | 1.0 | 26 days |
January
- Average High: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
- Average Low: 40–45°F (4–7°C)
- Rainfall: Low
January is cool and pleasant. Days are sunny and mild, perfect for hiking and golf. Evenings can feel chilly, so bring a light jacket.
Best for: Outdoor exploration without summer heat
Crowd level: Moderate (winter visitors and snowbirds)
February
- Average High: 68–72°F (20–22°C)
- Average Low: 42–47°F (6–8°C)
Temperatures begin warming slightly, making it one of the most comfortable months. Desert wildflowers may begin blooming late in the month.
Best for: Hiking, biking, sightseeing
Tip: Great balance of weather and manageable crowds
March
- Average High: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- Average Low: 48–52°F (9–11°C)
March marks the start of peak season. Warm days and cool evenings create ideal conditions for outdoor festivals and patio dining.
Nearby Phoenix hosts Cactus League Spring Training, drawing baseball fans across the country.
Best for: Events, golf, spring training
Crowd level: High
April
- Average High: 85–90°F (29–32°C)
- Average Low: 55–60°F (13–16°C)
April is one of the most popular months. Warm but not yet scorching, it’s ideal for resort stays and poolside relaxation.
Best for: Luxury travel, spa weekends
Weather note: Low humidity and abundant sunshine
May
- Average High: 95–100°F (35–38°C)
- Average Low: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
Heat increases significantly in May. It’s still manageable for early morning activities, but midday can feel intense.
Best for: Budget travelers (lower hotel rates begin)
Tip: Schedule outdoor activities before 10 a.m.
June
- Average High: 105–110°F (40–43°C)
- Average Low: 75°F (24°C)
Summer officially arrives — and it’s hot. Expect dry desert heat with extremely sunny skies.
Best for: Resort deals and fewer crowds
Caution: Stay hydrated and avoid afternoon hiking
July
- Average High: 105–108°F (40–42°C)
- Average Low: 80°F (27°C)
July brings monsoon season to the Sonoran Desert. You may see dramatic afternoon thunderstorms and dust storms.
Best for: Photography (spectacular desert skies)
Weather feature: Brief but intense rain showers
August
- Average High: 102–105°F (39–41°C)
- Average Low: 78°F (26°C)
Similar to July, with continued monsoon patterns. Humidity is slightly higher than other summer months.
Best for: Deep hotel discounts
Travel tip: Plan indoor attractions during peak heat
September
- Average High: 98–102°F (37–39°C)
- Average Low: 72°F (22°C)
Heat begins to ease slightly, especially late in the month. Crowds remain low.
Best for: Shoulder-season savings
Note: Early September still feels like full summer
October
- Average High: 85–90°F (29–32°C)
- Average Low: 60°F (15°C)
October is one of the best times to visit. Comfortable daytime warmth returns, and evenings are pleasant.
It’s an ideal time to explore Old Town Scottsdale or hike in the nearby McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
Best for: Outdoor adventures, food festivals
Crowd level: Rising but manageable
November
- Average High: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- Average Low: 50°F (10°C)
November offers near-perfect desert weather. Sunny, mild, and dry — it’s a favorite for golfers and hikers.
Best for: Golf trips and romantic getaways
Weather note: Very low rainfall
December
- Average High: 65–70°F (18–21°C)
- Average Low: 42–45°F (6–7°C)
December is cool and festive. Holiday events and mild daytime weather make it comfortable for sightseeing.
Best for: Winter sun escapes
Evenings: Cool but rarely freezing
When Is the Best Time to Visit Scottsdale?
It depends on your travel style:
- 🌤 Best Overall Weather: March, April, October, November
- 💰 Best for Budget Travelers: June–September
- 🏌️ Best for Golf: November–April
- 🌵 Best for Hiking: February–April and October
20 frequently asked questions about Scottsdale weather
1. What type of climate does Scottsdale have?
Scottsdale has a hot desert climate, with very hot summers, mild winters, and low annual rainfall.
2. How hot does Scottsdale get in summer?
Summer temperatures (June–September) often exceed 105°F (40°C), with June and July being the hottest months.
3. Is the heat in Scottsdale dry or humid?
Most of the year it’s a dry heat, but humidity rises slightly during the July–August monsoon season.
4. What is the coldest month in Scottsdale?
January is typically the coldest month, with daytime highs around 65–70°F (18–21°C).
5. Does it ever snow in Scottsdale?
Snow is extremely rare. It almost never snows in the city itself.
6. When is the best weather in Scottsdale?
March, April, October, and November offer the most comfortable temperatures.
7. What is monsoon season in Scottsdale?
Monsoon season runs from July through September, bringing short but intense afternoon thunderstorms.
8. Does Scottsdale get a lot of rain?
No. Annual rainfall averages only about 8–10 inches, with most occurring during monsoon storms.
9. How many sunny days does Scottsdale have?
Scottsdale enjoys 300+ sunny days per year.
10. Is Scottsdale too hot to visit in summer?
It depends on your tolerance for heat. Outdoor activities are limited midday, but resorts offer major discounts.
11. What should I pack for winter in Scottsdale?
Light layers for daytime and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
12. What should I pack for summer?
Lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and reusable water bottles.
13. Is spring a busy season weather-wise?
Yes. Spring offers ideal weather and is considered peak tourist season.
14. Are evenings cool in Scottsdale?
From October through April, evenings can be cool and pleasant. In summer, nights remain warm.
15. Can you hike year-round in Scottsdale?
Yes, but summer hikes should be done very early in the morning due to extreme heat.
16. Is Scottsdale windy?
It’s generally not windy, but dust storms (called haboobs) can occur during monsoon season.
17. What is the humidity level like?
Humidity is typically low (10–30%) except during monsoon months.
18. Are pools open year-round?
Most resort pools are heated in winter and open year-round.
19. When are hotel prices lowest due to weather?
Hotel rates are lowest from June through September because of the heat.
20. Is Scottsdale weather good for golf?
Yes. Fall, winter, and spring offer near-perfect golf conditions, which is why it’s a top golf destination.
Final Thoughts
Scottsdale offers a classic desert climate: mild winters, sizzling summers, and stunning sunshine nearly year-round.
If you prefer perfect outdoor conditions, aim for spring or fall. If you want luxury resort deals and don’t mind the heat, summer can offer exceptional value.
No matter when you visit, Scottsdale’s desert beauty and vibrant atmosphere make it a memorable destination.
