Last updated: February 24, 2025
October in Boston ushers in a crisp change of season, with maximum temperatures reaching a pleasant 29°C (84°F) while the average temperature settles at a brisk 12°C (54°F). The month can be quite wet, with a total precipitation amount of 134 mm (5.3 in) spread over 16 days, creating an atmosphere of lush autumnal beauty. High humidity levels at 83% often accompany the rain, enriching the air with the earthy scents of fall. Whether you're exploring the vibrant foliage or enjoying the city's historic charm, October offers a unique experience reflective of New England's transitional climate.
In October, Boston experiences a delightful shift in temperatures as the city transitions into autumn. The minimum temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F), while the average rises to a pleasant 12°C (54°F) and peaks at 29°C (84°F) on warmer days. This month showcases a significant drop from the balmy summer months, with September still clinging to average highs of 18°C (64°F). As the leaves begin to change, the cooler air creates a crisp backdrop, perfect for enjoying the vibrant fall foliage. October's weather invites residents and visitors alike to indulge in outdoor activities, wrapped in cozy layers while soaking in Boston's rich autumnal atmosphere.
October in Boston brings a noticeable uptick in precipitation, recording an average of 134 mm (5.3 in), making it the wettest month of the year. This increase is accompanied by 16 rainy days, suggesting a shift in the season as the city transitions from the drier late summer months. Notably, October’s rainfall exceeds that of September by a striking 58 mm (2.3 in), highlighting a significant seasonal change. As autumn settles in, these statistics reflect the cooler temperatures and rising atmospheric moisture, painting a vivid picture of a city enveloped in the crisp, damp embrace of fall. Overall, the precipitation pattern underscores October as a month of transformation, both in weather and in the shifting hues of the Boston landscape.
As autumn settles in, October brings a noticeable shift in humidity levels in Boston. With an average of 83%, this month showcases a middle ground between the summer's drier air—peaking at 72% in August—and the higher humidity levels that define the winter months, where figures soar back to 88% by November. Interestingly, while humidity gradually decreases from the wetness of early winter to the relatively drier late summer, October stands out with its comfort zone ambiance, making it a prime time for outdoor activities amid the crisp air. This increase from the preceding months hints at the transition toward the wetter, chillier conditions ahead, striking a balance that many Boston residents and visitors find refreshing.
As October rolls in, Boston experiences a noticeable shift in its UV Index, dipping to 6—a level classified as high. This marks a decline from the peak summer months where UV ratings soared to 10, urging residents to take precautions with only 15 minutes of exposure before risking sunburn. In contrast, October allows for a more leisurely 25 minutes of sun before burning, but vigilance is still advised as the sun's strength remains significant. This gradual reduction in UV levels from summer's intensity is part of a broader trend as the year progresses, moving from the extremes of April's 8 and May's 9 towards the milder months ahead. For more detailed information about Boston's UV Index and seasonal changes, visit Boston UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As fall descends upon Boston, October brings a charming embrace of 199 hours of sunshine, offering a pleasant contrast to the dwindling daylight of the ensuing months. This marks a noticeable shift from the summer peak, where the city basked in an impressive 338 hours during July and August. As the season transitions, October maintains a robust brightness compared to the earlier winter months, providing a respite from the 151 hours of November and 104 hours of December. Despite the gradual decrease, the sunlit days of October still serve as a reminder of the brighter days left behind while paving the way for the cozy, crisp days of late fall.
In October, Boston experiences a 28% chance of sunny weather, marking a notable dip compared to the vibrant summer months. As the year progresses from June’s 45% and July’s 38%, the likelihood of clear skies wanes, reflecting the shift towards cooler fall temperatures. However, this relatively low percentage is still higher than the depths of winter, where January offers just 14% sunshine. The transition into autumn brings a mix of mild days and crisp air, yet October's sunshine is more elusive than in the vibrant spring months. As the days get shorter, Bostonians can expect a blend of colorful foliage and unpredictably cloudy skies, making the seasonal change both beautiful and variable.
As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, October marks a distinct transition in Boston's daylight duration. Following the peak of summer, when daylight stretches to a generous 15 hours in June, the sunlight gradually retreats. In October, daylight settles at 10 hours, signaling the onset of shorter days as winter approaches. This follows a steady decline from the previous months, with September still enjoying 12 hours of light, but indicating the inevitable approach of the darker autumn months. This gentle decrease in daylight not only highlights the seasonal shifts but also invites Bostonians to embrace the cozy warmth of fall activities as daylight becomes a precious commodity.
As October sweeps into Boston, the city experiences a gentle transition in wind patterns, characterized by an average speed of 3.4 m/s (8 mph). This month’s breeze is slightly lower than the bustling winds of spring but showcases a similar calm to the previous month. Following the summer's lighter 2.7 m/s (6 mph) gusts, October brings a refreshing breath of air that seems to invigorate the autumn landscape, ushering in the vibrant colors of fall. The moderate winds not only enhance the picturesque views but also set the stage for a chilly November ahead, which notably ramps up to an average of 4.0 m/s (9 mph). This pattern highlights Boston's seasonal ebb and flow, where transitions are felt not just in the foliage but also in the rhythm of the wind.
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 stark contrasts in weather. October tends to be milder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and an average of 12°C (54°F). This month experiences a higher amount of precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over approximately 16 days, coupled with a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, January is significantly colder, featuring temperatures that dip as low as -21°C (-6°F) and only rise to a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging -3°C (27°F). While it has less overall precipitation at 87 mm (3.4 in) over 14 days, the humidity is slightly higher at 91%. For a detailed look at the January weather in Boston, check out Boston weather in January.
When comparing the weather in October and February, notable differences emerge in both temperature and overall conditions. October experiences milder temperatures, ranging from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm 29°C (84°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (54°F). In contrast, February can be harsh, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -19°C (-2°F), an average of -2°C (29°F), and a maximum of 20°C (69°F).
While October sees significant rainfall, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, February is drier, with only 90 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over the same number of days. The humidity is slightly higher in February at 91%, compared to 83% in October. For a closer examination of February weather conditions, you can check Boston weather in February.
In comparing the weather of October and March, October typically presents milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). This month is characterized by higher precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over approximately 16 days, and a humidity level of 83%. In contrast, March experiences colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -18°C (0°F) and averaging around 2°C (35°F), while peaking at 22°C (72°F). March sees less precipitation overall at 80 mm (3.2 in) but lasts for about 13 days, accompanied by a slightly higher humidity at 88%. For more details on the weather during March, you can visit Boston weather in March.
In comparing the weather of October and April, October tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures reaching around 12°C (54°F) compared to April's 7°C (45°F). While both months experience a mix of temperatures, April can see colder nights with minimums dropping to -5°C (23°F), whereas October's lowest temperature is 0°C (32°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with October receiving slightly more rain at 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, compared to April's 119 mm (4.7 in) over 15 days. Additionally, April tends to be slightly more humid, with an average humidity of 88%, compared to 83% in October. For more details on April weather, you can refer to Boston weather in April.
When comparing the weather in October and May, we see notable differences in temperatures and precipitation. October experiences a range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) to a balmy 29°C (84°F), with an average temperature of 12°C (54°F) and 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 16 days, resulting in a relatively humid environment at 83%. In contrast, May typically has slightly cooler nights with a minimum temperature of -2°C (29°F) but can reach up to 32°C (89°F) during the day, maintaining an average of 14°C (58°F). Precipitation in May is less, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) across 14 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 82%. For a closer look at May weather patterns, you can refer to Boston weather in May.
October and June present distinct contrasts in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm 29°C (84°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month is marked by considerable precipitation, averaging 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, and a higher humidity level of 83%. In contrast, June offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F), culminating in an average of 19°C (67°F). Rainfall is less frequent, totaling 89 mm (3.5 in) across 12 days, and humidity is slightly lower at 79%. For a more detailed look at June weather in Boston, check out Boston weather in June.
In October, temperatures in Boston can range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a pleasant 29°C (84°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month is characterized by higher humidity at 83% and a notable amount of precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over approximately 16 days. In contrast, July experiences much warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (52°F) and highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). The humidity is comparatively lower at 77%, and while July has slightly less rainfall at 127 mm (5.0 in) distributed over 15 days, it still brings consistent summer showers. For more insights on July conditions, you can check Boston weather in July.
In comparing the weather of October and August, October experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dipping to 0°C (32°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (84°F), while August remains warmer with minimums around 8°C (47°F) and maximums peaking at 31°C (88°F). Additionally, October is notably wetter, receiving 134 mm (5.3 in) of precipitation over 16 days, compared to August's 85 mm (3.3 in) over 13 days. The humidity is also higher in October at 83%, compared to the 72% average in August, indicating a more humid and damp atmosphere as the season progresses. For more details on August weather in Boston, visit Boston weather in August.
In comparing the weather patterns of September and October, October presents a notable shift towards cooler temperatures and increased precipitation. While September boasts a higher average temperature of 18°C (64°F) with maximums reaching up to 31°C (89°F), October experiences a cooler average of 12°C (54°F) and maximums only climbing to 29°C (84°F). Additionally, October sees an increase in rainfall with 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, compared to September's 76 mm (3.0 in) over just 9 days. Furthermore, humidity levels are higher in October at 83%, contrasting with September’s 76%. For more insights into September weather, check out Boston weather in September.
October and November exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F), with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month sees considerable precipitation at 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days and boasts a humidity level of 83%. Conversely, November experiences a significant drop in temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (8°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), peaking at 25°C (77°F). This month has slightly lower precipitation at 99 mm (3.9 in) over 15 days and higher humidity at 88%. For more detailed information, you can explore Boston weather in November.
October and December present stark contrasts in weather characteristics. In October, temperatures range from a chilly 0°C (32°F) at night to a warm 29°C (84°F) during the day, with an average of 12°C (54°F). The month experiences a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 134 mm (5.3 in) over 16 days, and humidity levels hover around 83%. In sharp contrast, December ushers in much colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F), an average temperature of 0°C (33°F), and a maximum of only 18°C (65°F). Though it has slightly less total precipitation at 105 mm (4.1 in) over 18 days, the increased humidity at 87% adds to the winter chill. For those interested in exploring the winter weather trends, visit Boston weather in December.
October in Boston is a month of transformation, as the city shifts from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn. The weather becomes markedly cooler, with temperatures averaging around 12°C (54°F) and dips that can reach near 0°C (32°F). This transition is complemented by an increase in precipitation—over 134 mm (5.3 in) through about 16 days—creating a distinctly damp atmosphere, often accompanied by a humidity level of 83%. As the foliage bursts into vibrant colors, October offers a unique blend of temperature variability and atmospheric richness, making it a captivating time to experience Boston. For more insights into the intricate weather patterns of this historic city, visit Boston Climate.