UV Index in Boston, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Boston. As a city with a humid subtropical climate, Boston experiences varying UV levels throughout the year, making it vital to monitor these levels for effective sunburn prevention and overall skin health. During peak summer hours, the UV Index can reach a high of 11, indicating extreme risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Staying informed about the UV Index not only helps protect your skin but also enhances your outdoor experience in this vibrant city, where sunny days call for fun in the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Boston

The hourly UV Index paints a vivid picture of the sun's intensity throughout the day. Starting off gently in the early morning, with maximum readings of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00, it gradually begins to climb. By 09:00, it reaches 3, signaling a noticeable increase in UV exposure. The sun peaks dramatically at 12:00, soaring to a 10, reaching its zenith with a maximum of 11 at both 13:00 and 14:00—a prime time for sun protection. As the afternoon slips into evening, the UV Index begins to recede, dropping to 8 by 16:00, and then tapering off to 5 at 17:00. The day winds down with a safe 3 at 18:00 and returns to a manageable 1 by 19:00, reminding us to stay vigilant and enjoy the sun responsibly throughout the day.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
TimeUVICategoryTime to Burn
07:001low45 min
08:001low45 min
09:003moderate30 min
10:005moderate30 min
11:008very high15 min
12:0010very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0011extreme10 min
15:0010very high15 min
16:008very high15 min
17:005moderate30 min
18:003moderate30 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Boston

Throughout the year, UV Index levels fluctuate significantly, with the highest risk observed during the spring and summer months. From February to August, the UV Index remains at a very high to extreme level, peaking at 11 in May, June, July, and August, where the burn time is as short as 10 minutes. Visitors and residents are advised to take extra precautions during these months by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and seeking shade, especially during midday hours. In contrast, January and December experience moderate UV levels, allowing for longer exposure times of 30 minutes before burning. As the UV levels decline entering the fall months, particularly in November with a high index of 6 (burn time of 25 minutes), it is still prudent to remain vigilant against UV exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Boston, United States

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Boston. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec589101111111110864
Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Boston, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Boston UV Index with Other United States Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Boston compares to other major locations across United States. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.
Boston's solar exposure compared to other cities in United States. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
 JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Chicago UVI34689101098642
Brooklyn UVI35681010998642
New York City UVI35681010998642
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Boston589101111111110864
Houston UVI589111112121110975