UV Index in Boston, United States

Last updated: July 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is essential for residents and visitors in Boston, United States, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding your skin health and preventing sunburn. With a humid subtropical climate, Boston experiences varying UV levels throughout the day, peaking around noon when the UV Index can soar to a high of 11. Knowing these levels empowers you to take proactive measures—whether it’s applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, or seeking shade—ensuring you enjoy the beautiful Boston sun while minimizing the risk of skin damage. Stay informed and protect your skin!

Hourly UV Index in Boston

The UV Index for today starts off mild, peaking at 1 by 7:00 AM, then gradually increases as the sun climbs higher in the sky. By 10:00 AM, it hits 6, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. The intensity keeps climbing, reaching a maximum of 11 at 1:00 PM, making this the most crucial time for sun safety. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to wane, dropping to 8 by 3:00 PM, then further to 2 by the evening, signalling a return to a safer UV environment. Remember, protecting your skin is vital during those peak hours of 10 AM to 2 PM!

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
08:002low45 min
09:004moderate30 min
10:006high25 min
11:008very high15 min
12:0010very high15 min
13:0011extreme10 min
14:0010very high15 min
15:008very high15 min
16:006high25 min
17:003moderate30 min
18:002low45 min
19:001low45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Boston

Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences significant fluctuations, indicating varying levels of sun exposure risk. January and December see the lowest levels, with a moderate UV Index of 3, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring approaches, March escalates to a high index of 7, reducing burn time to 25 minutes, while April and May peak at 9 and 10 respectively, categorizing them as very high risk months with burn times as low as 15 minutes. The intensity peaks in July at an extreme UV Index of 11, where just 10 minutes of exposure can lead to skin damage. Following summer, the risk remains high through August and September, before tapering into moderate levels in November. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun safety during March to October, taking precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours, especially in the summer months when the UV Index is at its highest.

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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3579101011108753
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
Boston3579101011108753
Los Angeles UVI46891011111010754
Houston UVI589111112121110975