Last updated: January 18, 2025
Massachusetts exhibits a diverse climate characterized by a mix of Köppen-Geiger climate classes, including Dfb, Dfa, Cfa, and Cfb. The state's temperature range is strikingly extensive, with minimum recorded temperatures plummeting to -28°C (-17°F) in January, while the average annual temperature hovers around 11°C (51°F). Summer months can witness maximum temperatures soaring to 38°C (101°F) in July, creating a notable seasonal contrast. This variation not only impacts local ecosystems but also influences the livelihoods and activities of residents throughout the year.
Temperature patterns in Massachusetts reveal distinct seasonal variations, with harsh winters and warm summers shaping the climate throughout the year. January and February mark the peak of winter, featuring minimum temperatures that can plummet as low as -28°C (-17°F) and -27°C (-17°F) respectively, while average temperatures remain below freezing. As spring approaches, March and April show gradual warming, with temperatures rising to averages of 3°C (37°F) and 8°C (47°F), and maximums reaching 30°C (87°F) by late April. This transition culminates in the warmth of summer, with July boasting average highs around 23°C (73°F), occasionally peaking at 38°C (101°F). August maintains similar temperatures, while September begins a cool-down, dropping to an average of 19°C (66°F). Autumn further ushers in cooler air, with October and November bringing average temperatures down to 13°C (56°F) and 6°C (43°F), respectively, and minimums dipping into the -20s°C (-4 to -10°F). The cycle concludes with December, where temperatures hover around freezing, closing the year with a familiar chill. This dynamic range underscores Massachusetts' diverse and fluctuating climate, driven by its geographic and atmospheric influences.
Massachusetts experiences a range of temperatures across its cities, with Nantucket, Boston, and Cambridge reflecting this diversity. In Nantucket, the monthly temperature in Nantucket ranges from a chilly -13°C (9°F) in January to a warm 24°C (76°F) in July. Boston, on the other hand, faces a more extreme climate, with its monthly temperature in Boston plunging to -19°C (-3°F) in the winter and soaring to 34°C (94°F) in the summer. Similarly, Cambridge experiences a monthly temperature in Cambridge that spans from -20°C (-3°F) in the colder months to a peak of 33°C (91°F) in July. These variations highlight the distinct climate characteristics within the region.
Precipitation in Massachusetts displays a clear seasonal pattern, with the winter months of January and February receiving relatively lower amounts, averaging 78 mm (3.1 in) and 96 mm (3.8 in), respectively. As spring arrives, precipitation increases, peaking in April with 132 mm (5.2 in), coinciding with a rise in rainfall days to 12 days. The wet conditions persist into early summer, as May and June maintain substantial rainfall levels of 100 mm (3.9 in) and 90 mm (3.5 in), further enhancing the spring bloom.
As summer transitions to fall, July marks a notable rise in precipitation with 128 mm (5.0 in), while August sees a slight decline to 88 mm (3.5 in), maintaining a moderate pattern. September experiences consistent rainfall at 97 mm (3.8 in) before October emerges as the wettest month, with 148 mm (5.8 in) and 11 days of rain, heralding the onset of autumn. This trend continues into November and December, with both months averaging around 100 mm (3.9 in) and 124 mm (4.9 in), respectively, solidifying Massachusetts' reputation for its rich and varied precipitation patterns throughout the year.
In Massachusetts, sunshine duration exhibits a pronounced seasonal trend, with daylight hours steadily increasing from the depths of winter to the peak of summer. January starts with a modest 146 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 184 hours in February. As spring progresses, March brings a significant uptick with 252 hours, followed by April's 237 hours. The real transformation occurs in May, where sunshine hours reach 283 hours, heralding the transition to summer. This steady progression reflects not only the lengthening of days but also the growing intensity of the sun's rays as the season changes.
The summer months represent the pinnacle of sunshine duration, with July recording an impressive 333 hours, closely followed by August at 324 hours. As these vibrant months dwindle, a gradual decline occurs, with September yielding 277 hours, and October dropping to 218 hours. November and December witness further reductions with 199 hours and 173 hours, respectively, as the darker months of winter return. This cyclical pattern underscores the stark contrasts in sunlight experienced across the year, contributing to the diverse climate and seasonal activities found in the Bay State.
In Massachusetts, the UV Index (UVI) reveals notable seasonal variations, reflecting the changing intensity of solar radiation throughout the year. During the winter months, the UVI starts relatively low, with January recording a UVI of 3 and decreasing to 2 in December. As spring approaches, UVI levels begin to rise, reaching 6 in March and peaking at 8 in April. This increase continues into May, where the UVI reaches a significant 10, indicating heightened sun exposure and the need for sun protection as outdoor activities begin to spike with warmer weather.
The summer months of June, July, and August consistently maintain a UVI of 10, the highest levels observed, suggesting that sun safety measures are particularly crucial during this time. As the season transitions to fall, the UVI begins to decline, dropping to 8 in September and 6 in October. November sees a further decrease to 4, before falling back to a low of 3 in January. This progression highlights a clear annual cycle in UV exposure, emphasizing seasonal peaks that inform residents about the importance of protecting themselves against harmful UV radiation during the more intense sun seasons.
UV Risk Categories
In Massachusetts, daylight duration showcases a pronounced seasonal cycle, with significant variations throughout the year. Starting the year in January, residents experience only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February. As spring unfolds, March brings 11 hours of daylight, and this increase accelerates into April, where it reaches 13 hours. By May, the days grow longer still, offering 14 hours of daylight as the state embraces the warmth and vibrancy of spring.
The peak of daylight occurs in June, with an impressive 15 hours illuminating the days, marking the height of summer. As summer wanes, daylight begins to decline, with July offering 14 hours and August featuring 13 hours. The autumn months continue this downward trend, dropping to 12 hours in September and returning to 11 hours in October. Finally, daylight diminishes to 9 hours again in both November and December, closing the year with the familiar shorter days of winter. This rhythmic shift not only influences daily activities but also enriches the seasonal experience in Massachusetts.
Barnstable, located in Massachusetts, experiences a varied climate throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F) and notable precipitation, especially in February with 123 mm (4.8 in). Summers are warm, as July averages 21°C (71°F), peaking at 29°C (84°F) with the driest months being July and August, receiving around 83-82 mm (3.3-3.2 in) of rainfall respectively. The area enjoys the most sunshine in July with 346 hours and generally sees decreasing daylight from August onward. For more details on the region's climate, visit Barnstable climate.
Boston's climate exhibits significant seasonal variation, with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, particularly January and February, are characterized by low temperatures, often dropping to -19°C (-3°F) with an average near freezing, and substantial precipitation, ranging from 79 mm (3.1 in) to 97 mm (3.8 in). Summer averages around 23°C (73°F), peaking in July and August, with maximums reaching 34°C (94°F), while precipitation remains moderate at 115 mm (4.5 in) in July. Spring and fall experience mild temperatures with notable fluctuations, such as March's average of 3°C (38°F) and October's 14°C (57°F), alongside varying rainfall, with October being notably high at 149 mm (5.9 in). Throughout the year, sunshine increases from 152 hours in January to a high of 334 hours in July before gradually decreasing. For a detailed look at Boston's climate, visit the Boston climate.
Buzzards Bay, United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -16°C (3°F) to 16°C (62°F) and frequent precipitation, averaging 86 mm (3.4 in) in January and peaking at 125 mm (4.9 in) in April. Summers are warm, particularly in July and August, where temperatures reach up to 34°C (93°F), complemented by ample sunshine—up to 346 hours in July. The autumn transition sees increased rainfall, especially in October with 151 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation. For further details on the Buzzards Bay climate, visit the provided link.
Cambridge, United States experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January sees chilly temperatures, ranging from -20°C (-3°F) to a peak of 19°C (67°F), and receives about 77 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation. The temperature gradually rises through the year, reaching its peak in July and August with averages around 22°C (73°F) and highs of 33°C (91°F). Rainfall is fairly even throughout the year, with October being the wettest month at 146 mm (5.8 in), while sunshine peaks in July with 334 hours. For further details, visit the Cambridge climate page.
Chatham, United States experiences a moderate climate with distinct seasonal variations characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures range from -13°C (10°F) to an average of 5°C (41°F) in December, accompanied by substantial precipitation averaging 124 mm (4.9 in) in February. As spring arrives, temperatures gradually rise, reaching an average maximum of 19°C (66°F) by May, with precipitation peaking at 131 mm (5.1 in) in April. The summer months of June through August are warm, with temperatures averaging between 16°C (61°F) and 21°C (71°F), while receiving less rainfall, especially in July at 77 mm (3.0 in). Autumn sees decreasing temperatures and daylight, with October experiencing the highest precipitation at 169 mm (6.7 in). For more detailed climate information, refer to Chatham climate.
Concord, United States, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months from December to February see temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-3°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F), while summers, especially in July and August, are warmer with averages around 23°C (74°F) and maximums reaching up to 37°C (98°F). Precipitation varies throughout the year, with October being the wettest month with 132 mm (5.2 in) and February having 87 mm (3.4 in). Sunshine hours peak during the summer months, with July offering the most at 334 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the Concord climate page.
Dennis, United States experiences a varied climate with significant seasonal differences in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine. Winters are cold, with January and February presenting average temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and considerable precipitation, reaching a peak of 123 mm (4.8 in) in February. The climate warms up in the summer months, with July and August seeing the highest average temperatures of 21°C (71°F) and 22°C (72°F) respectively, alongside reduced rainfall under 83 mm (3.3 in) and extended sunshine of up to 346 hours in July. Autumn months bring cooler temperatures with increased rainfall, peaking in October at 175 mm (6.9 in). For more details on Dennis' climate, visit the Dennis climate page.
Edgartown, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from average lows of -16°C (4°F) in January to average highs of 27°C (81°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly consistent year-round, with October seeing the highest rainfall at 168 mm (6.6 in) and July the lowest at 84 mm (3.3 in). The area enjoys the most sunshine during the summer months, peaking at 346 hours in July. For more details, visit the Edgartown climate page.
Falmouth, United States, experiences a varied climate with distinct seasonal changes. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -16°C (4°F) to 13°C (55°F) and precipitation of 93 mm (3.7 in). Summers are warm, with July and August averages reaching 22°C (71-73°F) and minimal precipitation around 84-86 mm (3.3-3.4 in). The region is sunniest in July, receiving 346 hours of sunshine, while October stands out as the wettest month with 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain. For more information, visit the Falmouth climate page.
Florida's climate is characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers with significant precipitation throughout the year. Temperatures range significantly, with winter months experiencing lowest temperatures such as -27°C (-17°F) in January and summer peaks reaching up to 35°C (95°F) in July. The state receives substantial rainfall, averaging more during the summer months with July seeing up to 175 mm (6.9 in). Sunshine is abundant, especially from May to August, with each of these months receiving over 270 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information on Florida's climate, see Florida climate.
Gloucester, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with distinct seasonal variations. The winter months, from December to February, are cold with temperatures ranging from -17°C to 15°C and see significant precipitation, peaking at 165 mm in April. Spring and autumn bring mild conditions, while summer from June to August enjoys warmer temperatures between 10°C to 28°C and abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 340 hours. Rainfall varies throughout the year with a noticeable increase in October, receiving up to 177 mm. For more details, visit the Gloucester climate.
The climate in Great Barrington, United States, exhibits considerable seasonal variation, with frigid winters and warm summers. In January, temperatures typically range from a low of -25°C (-13°F) to a high of 16°C (61°F), accompanied by 81 mm (3.2 in) of precipitation and 132 hours of sunshine. By July, the mercury climbs, with temperatures between 10°C (51°F) and 34°C (93°F), along with 136 mm (5.4 in) of rainfall and 328 hours of sunshine. October transitions back to cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from -7°C (19°F) to 26°C (78°F) and receiving the year's highest precipitation at 152 mm (6.0 in). For more details, explore the Great Barrington climate.
Hyannis, United States, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers. January and February have the coldest temperatures, with average monthly lows of -14°C (6°F) and -12°C (10°F), respectively, and considerable precipitation, reaching up to 123 mm (4.8 in). Summers are warmer, with July being the hottest month, averaging 21°C (71°F), and peaking at 29°C (84°F), complemented by increased sunshine of up to 346 hours. Autumn months witness moderate precipitation, particularly in October with 175 mm (6.9 in), and a gradual decline in sunshine. For detailed climate information, visit Hyannis climate.
Lenox, Massachusetts experiences significant seasonal variation in climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Temperatures range from extreme lows of -25°C (-13°F) in January to highs of 34°C (93°F) in July. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, peaking in October at 152 mm (6.0 inches) and dipping slightly in June with 85 mm (3.4 inches). Sunshine totals vary widely, with July boasting the most at 328 hours, in contrast to the winter months like January with just 132 hours. For a more detailed overview of the climate in Lenox, please visit Lenox climate.
Lexington, United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. January sees minimum temperatures dropping to -21°C (-6°F), while July boasts average highs around 23°C (74°F). Rainfall is relatively consistent year-round, peaking in October with 132 mm (5.2 in), and the driest months receive around 71 mm (2.8 in) in January. Sunshine hours steadily increase from 152 hours in January to a peak of 334 hours in July, providing ample daylight during the summer. For more in-depth information on the climate patterns, please visit the Lexington climate.
Manchester-by-the-Sea, located in Massachusetts, experiences a varied climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January is the coldest month with temperatures ranging from -17°C (2°F) to 15°C (59°F), while July and August are the warmest, with highs reaching up to 28°C (83°F). The region receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, peaking in October with 177 mm (7.0 in) of rainfall, contrasting with the drier month of August, which sees 62 mm (2.5 in). Sunshine hours are highest in June and July, averaging around 330 hours, while the shorter days of December bring only 176 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit the Manchester-by-the-Sea climate.
The climate in Marblehead, United States, experiences cold winters and warm summers, with notable seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation. During the winter months, temperatures can drop significantly, with January reaching lows of -17°C (2°F) and averaging 1°C (33°F), while in summer, July and August offer warmer conditions, averaging around 20°C (69°F) to 21°C (70°F). Precipitation varies, with peaks in October at 177 mm (7.0 in) and dips in August at 62 mm (2.5 in). Sunshine hours increase from 152 in January to a high of 340 in July. For more detailed climate information, visit the Marblehead climate.
Nantucket, located off the coast of Massachusetts, experiences a temperate climate with varying seasonal temperatures. Winters are relatively mild, with January and February averaging around 3°C (38°F), while summers are comfortably warm, reaching average highs of 24°C (76°F) in July and August. Precipitation is fairly consistent throughout the year, with notable peaks in October at 162 mm (6.4 in), and a generally drier summer, particularly in July, which sees only 64 mm (2.5 in) of rainfall. Despite some variability in precipitation, Nantucket enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine, especially in June and July, with over 300 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed climatic data, visit Nantucket climate.
Newburyport, located in the United States, experiences a diverse climate with noticeable seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with January temperatures ranging from -21°C (-5°F) to 19°C (66°F) and an average precipitation of 71 mm (2.8 in). Summers are warm, peaking in July and August with average temperatures of 23°C (73°F) and a maximum of 34°C (94°F). The area receives considerable rainfall, especially in April and October, each averaging around 131 mm (5.2 in). Sunshine throughout the year varies, peaking in July with 335 hours and dipping in January to 153 hours. For more details, refer to the Newburyport climate.
Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts, experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers, ideal for a range of activities throughout the year. Winter months from December to February are chilly, with average temperatures hovering around 2-4°C (35-40°F) and occasional lows dropping to -16°C (4°F). Transitioning to spring, temperatures rise moderately, reaching an average of 8-12°C (46-54°F) in April and May. The summer months of June to August are warm, with averages around 17-22°C (63-73°F) and peaks reaching 27°C (81°F), offering ample sunshine for outdoor enjoyment. Rainfall is relatively steady year-round, with a slight peak in October, accumulating to around 168 mm (6.6 in), while sunshine hours are the most abundant in July, reaching up to 346 hours. For more details, visit Oak Bluffs climate.
Orleans, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. During the winter months, temperatures can dip to -13°C (10°F) in January, with average temperatures around 2°C (37°F), while precipitation peaks at 124 mm (4.9 in) in February. As spring progresses, temperatures rise gradually, with April's averages reaching 7°C (45°F), while precipitation remains steady, peaking at 131 mm (5.1 in). The summer months are notably warmer, with July averages in the range of 20°C (69°F) and plenty of sunshine, totaling 344 hours. The fall season brings a gradual cooling, with October seeing an average of 15°C (59°F) and the highest precipitation of 169 mm (6.7 in) for the year. For more details, visit the Orleans climate.
Plymouth, United States, experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. January's temperatures dip to a chilly -17°C (1°F), rising to a pleasant maximum of 18°C (65°F) in the middle of the summer. Precipitation is fairly distributed throughout the year, peaking in October at 168 mm (6.6 in), and the area receives ample sunshine, especially from May to August, with July enjoying up to 337 hours of sun. These conditions contribute to a diverse and dynamic climate that supports a wide range of activities and lifestyles. For more details, visit the Plymouth climate page.
Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, experiences a varied climate throughout the year. Winters are cold, with January and February averaging around 2°C (36°F) and receiving moderate precipitation between 94 mm (3.7 in) and 115 mm (4.5 in). Spring months see a gradual rise in temperatures, reaching averages of 11°C (52°F) by May, accompanied by increased rainfall peaking at 134 mm (5.3 in) in April. The summer months from June to August bring warmer, more comfortable temperatures averaging 21°C (69°F) with relatively less precipitation and the highest sunshine, up to 338 hours in July. As autumn approaches, temperatures decrease, with October reaching around 15°C (59°F) on average, while rainfall increases significantly to 167 mm (6.6 in). For more information, visit Provincetown climate.
Rockport, United States experiences a varied climate with cold winters and warm summers. The winter months, from January to March, are marked by frigid temperatures, with lows dipping to -16°C (4°F) and 89-109 mm (3.5-4.3 in) of precipitation. In contrast, the summer period from June to August sees milder conditions with average highs reaching 27°C (81°F), and notably lower precipitation levels peaking in August at 54 mm (2.1 in). Sunshine is abundant in the summer, with July offering up to 342 hours of sunshine. For more details on the local climate, visit Rockport climate.
Salem, United States experiences varied seasonal climate patterns with cold winters and warm summers. Winter months like January and February see low temperatures, averaging around 0°C (32°F) with significant precipitation, particularly in December with 129 mm (5.1 in). In contrast, summers bring warmer temperatures, reaching averages of 22°C (73°F) in July and August, accompanied by a moderate 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain in July. Sunshine hours peak in the summer, notably in July with 334 hours, while decreasing in the winter months, reaching a low in December with 178 hours. For more detailed climate information, visit the Salem climate page.
Sandwich, located in the United States, experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with winter lows dropping to -16°C (3°F) in January and summer highs reaching up to 34°C (93°F) in July. Precipitation is fairly consistent across the months, peaking in October with 151 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while August sees comparatively less with 78 mm (3.1 in). The area enjoys substantial sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July boasting the most sunshine at 346 hours. The transition months of April and October see moderate temperatures and precipitation, making them favorable for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, check out the Sandwich climate page.
Stockbridge, United States, experiences a diverse climate throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers. In the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as -25°C (-13°F) in January, while summer months like July can see highs up to 34°C (93°F). The area receives varying precipitation levels, with October seeing the highest at 152 mm (6.0 in) and June experiencing the lowest at 85 mm (3.4 in). Sunshine also fluctuates, ranging from 132 hours in January to a peak of 328 hours in July, offering considerable variation in daylight through the seasons. For further details on the climate in Stockbridge, visit Stockbridge climate.
Vineyard Haven, located in the United States, experiences a climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters can be quite cold, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -16°C (4°F) to a maximum of 13°C (55°F), while precipitation is around 93 mm (3.7 in). Summers are mild and pleasant, with July having average temperatures of 22°C (71°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), accompanied by 84 mm (3.3 in) of rainfall. The region receives varying precipitation throughout the year, peaking in October with 168 mm (6.6 in), and sunshine hours increase in summer, reaching 346 hours in July. For more detailed climate data, visit the Vineyard Haven climate page.
Located in Massachusetts, Wellfleet experiences a varied climate throughout the year. Winter months are chilly, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C (37°F) in January to -11°C (13°F) in February, and experiencing peak precipitation in October at 161 mm (6.3 in). As spring arrives, temperatures gradually warm up, reaching averages of 3°C (38°F) in March to 11°C (51°F) in May, accompanied by increased sunshine hours, peaking at 293 hours in May. The summer season brings pleasant warmth, with July and August averaging 20°C (69°F) and 21°C (70°F) respectively, alongside reduced rainfall. To explore more about the Wellfleet climate, one can examine data on seasonal variations and explore how these factors contribute to the region's unique weather patterns.
Yarmouth, United States, experiences a moderate climate with four distinct seasons, highlighted by cold winters and warm summers. Winter months, particularly January and February, see average temperatures around 2°C (36°F) and can drop as low as -14°C (6°F). Summers, from June to August, bring warmer weather, with average highs reaching 29°C (84°F) in July. Precipitation is relatively consistent throughout the year, peaking in October at 175 mm (6.9 in), and sunshine hours vary from 142 in January to 346 in July. For more detailed climatic information, please refer to the Yarmouth climate.
In conclusion, Massachusetts experiences a dynamic interplay of climate characteristics, including temperature fluctuations, precipitation patterns, sunshine duration, UV Index levels, and daylight hours throughout the year. The state embodies distinct seasonal variations, from the bitter cold and shorter days of winter to the warm, sun-filled days of summer. Notably, as residents transition through each season, they encounter significant changes in climate metrics, which not only shape daily life but also have broader impacts on the local environment and ecosystems. Understanding these climatic dynamics is vital for residents and visitors alike, as it facilitates informed decisions regarding outdoor activities, sun protection, and seasonal planning throughout the diverse Massachusetts year.