October Weather in Boston, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

October in Boston presents a captivating blend of crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage. The maximum temperature reaches a pleasant 27°C (81°F), while the average hovers around 14°C (57°F), creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. As the month progresses, temperatures can dip to a chilly 0°C (33°F), reminding residents and visitors alike that winter is on the horizon. Rainfall is a frequent companion, with an average precipitation amount of 149 mm (5.9 in) spread over 12 days, and humidity levels at 78% adding to the seasonal ambiance. Embrace the enchanting contrasts of October in Boston, where the beauty of fall and the nostalgia of the fading warmth intertwine.

October Temperature in Boston

As October settles in Boston, temperatures begin to reflect the transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of fall. With minimums hovering around 0°C (33°F) and averages reaching a comfortable 14°C (57°F), the month offers a refreshing respite from the heat of previous months. Max temperatures can still peak at a pleasant 27°C (81°F), inviting residents to enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage amidst mild days. This blend of cooler mornings and mild afternoons not only signals the approach of winter but also enhances the city's charm, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. With each passing day, the crisp air and colorful landscapes create a picturesque backdrop for the October experience in Boston.

October Weather in Boston: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates October temperature patterns in Boston, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec323438485767737366574436
Data source: Temperature data for Boston generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

October Precipitation in Boston

In October, Boston experiences a significant uptick in precipitation, with an average of 149 mm (5.9 in) over approximately 12 days. This marks it as one of the wettest months of the year, reflecting the transition into the wetter fall season. Notably, this contrasts with the lighter rainfall seen during the late summer, especially in August, which typically receives only 76 mm (3.0 in). The increase in both the amount and frequency of rainfall underscores October’s role as a pivotal month for preparing for the harsh winter ahead, as vibrant autumn foliage meets the damp, chilly air, reminding residents of the changing season.

October Precipitation Trends in Boston

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Boston, with values for each month alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how October's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec799710213594861157692149100125
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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October Humidity in Boston

As October rolls into Boston, the air begins to shift with an average humidity of 78%, marking a noticeable transition from the drier summer months. After enjoying relatively comfortable levels in July (67%) and August (66%), humidity starts to creep back up in September (71%) as autumn approaches. This rise in moisture levels in October does not quite reach the high of mid-winter months like January (86%) or February (84%), but it's a shift that hints at the chilly days ahead. The gradual increase from the summer lows signals a change in the season, reminding Bostonians to prepare for the brisk air that comes with fall.

October Average Humidity in Boston

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Boston, with October's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how October's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%84%82%80%72%72%67%66%71%79%84%81%
Data source: Humidity data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in Boston

As autumn settles in, October in Boston brings a UV Index of 6, categorized as high, with a burn time of 25 minutes. This marks a noticeable decrease from the peak summer months, where the UV Index surged to 10 in June. The trend shows a gradual reduction in UV exposure as the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, moving from a very high risk in the previous months to a more moderate yet still significant level. Even as we enjoy the crisp fall days, it's essential to remain mindful of UV exposure, especially during peak hours. For those planning outdoor activities, staying informed about the UV Index is crucial—check out more details at Boston UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Boston for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Boston in October, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3558910997642
Data source: Boston October UVI data generated using 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.

October Sunshine in Boston

As autumn paints Boston in vibrant hues, October brings a delightful 221 hours of sunshine, marking a gentle dip from the summer's peak but still providing ample opportunity to bask in the golden rays. This month's sunlight, while lower than the sun-drenched days of June and July, showcases a consistent trend seen throughout the year, where sunny hours gradually decrease from the peak of summer. Interestingly, October's sunshine exceeds the earlier months of January and February, illustrating a lingering warmth as the city transitions into fall. This balance of warmth and cool air creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying the changing leaves and outdoor festivals, making October a cherished time in Boston.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Boston: October Highlighted

The October sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Boston experiences direct sunlight during the month of October, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of October with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec152h188h253h240h289h327h334h327h278h221h201h178h
Data source: Boston October Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Boston During October

When assessing the likelihood of sunny weather in October in Boston, it’s notable that the chance of sunshine stands at 40%, positioning it among the more favorable months compared to the earlier summer months like July (33%) and August (29%). This slight uptick reflects a common trend observed as the year transitions into autumn, where September also enjoys a 44% chance of sun, suggesting an interplay between lingering summer warmth and the onset of fall conditions. The overall pattern reveals that while October does not boast the highest probability of sunny days, it provides a refreshing respite from the hazier days of midsummer, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities amid the beautiful foliage.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in Boston

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Boston throughout the year, with October highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Boston experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec44%32%61%42%38%40%33%29%44%40%55%33%
Data source: Boston October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Boston in October

As October unfolds in Boston, the days begin to shorten, with daylight lasting about 11 hours—a noticeable decline from the sun-filled brilliance of summer. After experiencing a peak of 15 hours in June, the gradual tapering of daylight reflects the transition into autumn, where nature starts to prepare for the chill of winter. Just a month prior, September enjoyed 12 hours of daylight, and as we shift into November, Boston will see another drop to 9 hours. This trend showcases the constant ebb and flow of daylight throughout the year, reminding us of the changing seasons and the cozy evenings that accompany the shorter days.

Average Daylight Hours in Boston for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Boston throughout the year, with October highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 28m10h 34m11h 57m13h 23m14h 36m15h 12m14h 53m13h 48m12h 25m11h9h 45m9h 7m
Data source: Boston daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

October Winds in Boston

As October rolls in, Boston experiences a notable shift in wind dynamics, with an average wind speed of 4.1 m/s (9 mph)—a subtle increase compared to the late summer months. This marks a transition from the gentle breezes of August and September, where wind speeds dipped to around 3.1 m/s (7 mph). The fall air brings a refreshing crispness, invigorating city streets with an energy that signals the approach of winter. Consistently hovering around the 4.1 m/s mark in the subsequent months, October sets the stage for the brisk winds of November and December, providing a seamless continuity in the atmospheric changes experienced as the year draws to a close. This anticipatory shift in wind patterns hints at nature's rhythmic cycles, embracing both the chill and charm of Boston's autumn landscape.

Average October Wind Speed in Boston

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Boston, with values for each month shown alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how October's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.44.34.74.23.93.73.23.13.74.1 m/s4.14.1
Data source: Boston October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October Weather in Boston Compares to Other Months

The weather in Boston changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Boston and find detailed weather information for every month.

October and January present strikingly different weather conditions. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a warm 27°C (81°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 14°C (57°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 78% and about 149 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, January experiences much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-3°F), an average of 0°C (32°F), and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Despite the lower total precipitation of 79 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days, January has a higher humidity level of 86%. For more insights into January weather, check out Boston weather in January.

October and February present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. October boasts a warmer average temperature of 14°C (57°F), with a range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) to a pleasant 27°C (81°F), while February has a much colder average of 1°C (34°F), dipping to a frigid -16°C (4°F) and peaking at a milder 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is more abundant in October, with 149 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days compared to 97 mm (3.8 in) over 10 days in February. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in February at 84%, compared to 78% in October. For more detailed insights, check out Boston weather in February.

October and March present distinct weather patterns, with October generally being milder and more variable. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), yielding a comfortable average of 14°C (57°F). However, precipitation is relatively high at 149 mm (5.9 in) over about 12 days, coupled with a humidity level of 78%.

In contrast, March experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -12°C (11°F) and an average of only 3°C (38°F), while the maximum reaches 20°C (68°F). The precipitation is lower at 102 mm (4.0 in) over 10 days, and humidity is slightly higher at 82%. These differences highlight the transitional nature of March as winter gives way to spring, in contrast to October's autumnal warmth. For a more detailed look at March weather, check Boston weather in March.

When comparing October and April weather, we can see some interesting contrasts. October generally has a more temperate average of 14°C (57°F) compared to April's cooler average of 9°C (48°F). Despite similar maximum temperatures, both months can reach highs of 27°C (81°F), October experiences a lower minimum temperature of 0°C (33°F) compared to April's chilling -2°C (28°F). Precipitation levels are relatively close, with October receiving 149 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days, while April sees 135 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days. Humidity levels are comparable, with October at 78% and April slightly higher at 80%. For more details on April weather, you can check Boston weather in April.

In comparing the weather between October and May, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October experiences a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (33°F) and a maximum of 27°C (81°F), while May has a slightly higher minimum at 3°C (37°F) and a warmer maximum at 31°C (89°F). Both months feature an average temperature of around 14°C (57°F), but October is noticeably wetter, receiving 149 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation compared to May's 94 mm (3.7 in), despite both months having similar rainfall days at 12. Additionally, October's humidity reaches 78%, slightly higher than May’s 72%, contributing to a more damp and cooler overall feel during the fall compared to the pleasantly warmer and less humid springtime. For more details about the conditions in May, you can check out Boston weather in May.

October and June present distinct weather characteristics in terms of temperatures and precipitation. In June, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F), averaging around 19°C (67°F), which is notably warmer than October's range of 0°C (33°F) to 27°C (81°F) with an average of 14°C (57°F). Additionally, June experiences less precipitation, with 86 mm (3.4 in) over approximately 10 days compared to October's 149 mm (5.9 in) across 12 days. Humidity levels are slightly lower in June at 72%, while October sees a higher average of 78%. For more detailed insights, check out Boston weather in June.

October and July showcase distinctly different weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (33°F) at night to a comfortable 27°C (81°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 14°C (57°F). In contrast, July offers warmer conditions, with nightly lows of 14°C (57°F) and highs reaching up to 34°C (94°F), giving it an average of 23°C (73°F). While October experiences more rainfall with 149 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days, July sees slightly less precipitation at 115 mm (4.5 in) across the same number of days. Additionally, October's humidity is higher at 78%, compared to July's more moderate 67%. For more details about summer conditions, check out Boston weather in July.

In comparing the weather of October and August, October exhibits a notable drop in temperatures, with minimums of 0°C (33°F) and average highs of 27°C (81°F), while August is warmer, showcasing minimums of 13°C (56°F) and average highs reaching up to 33°C (92°F). Additionally, October experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 149 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days, compared to August's 76 mm (3.0 in) over 10 days. The humidity level also rises in October to 78%, in contrast to August's more comfortable 66%. For more details on August's weather, visit Boston weather in August.

In October, the weather exhibits a noticeable shift compared to September, with cooler temperatures that range from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 27°C (81°F), resulting in an average of 14°C (57°F). This contrasts with September, where the temperatures are warmer, featuring a minimum of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F), resulting in a higher average of 19°C (67°F). Additionally, October sees increased precipitation, with 149 mm (5.9 in) falling over 12 days, compared to September's 92 mm (3.6 in) over just 8 days. Humidity levels are also slightly higher in October at 78%, compared to 71% in September. For more detailed information about September's weather, check out Boston weather in September.

October weather is characterized by milder temperatures, with averages around 14°C (57°F) and maximums reaching as high as 27°C (81°F), making it a pleasant month for outdoor activities. However, it also sees significant rainfall, with about 149 mm (5.9 in) of precipitation over 12 days. In contrast, November brings colder conditions, with average temperatures dropping to 7°C (44°F) and minimums sinking to -10°C (14°F). While it has less rainfall at 100 mm (3.9 in) over 10 days, November tends to be slightly more humid, with humidity levels at 84%. For more specific details on November conditions, you can check this link: Boston weather in November.

In October, the weather is typically much warmer, with average temperatures soaring up to 14°C (57°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (81°F), while December experiences much cooler conditions, with an average temperature of just 2°C (36°F) and maximums only hitting 17°C (62°F). October also sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 149 mm (5.9 in) over about 12 days, compared to December's 124 mm (4.9 in) over 10 days. Humidity remains relatively high in both months, with October averaging 78% and December slightly higher at 81%. For more detailed insights into the winter climate, check out Boston weather in December.

Compare Boston's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in Boston

As October sets in, Boston transitions into a month where crisp air and vibrant foliage take center stage. Temperatures mark a comfortable average, offering pleasant days that contrast with the chill of approaching winter. While the days can still bask in warmth, the nights bring a noticeable drop, reminding residents of the seasonal shift. With nearly half the month experiencing rainfall, the humidity can make the air feel damp, adding to the cozy autumn atmosphere. If you're curious about how Boston's weather evolves throughout the year, check out detailed insights into its climate at Boston Climate.