Weather in Raleigh, N.C.

Raleigh, N.C.’s mild weather, while still experiencing four distinct seasons, is often cited as one of the many reasons the area shows up so often on superlative lists such as best places to live, work and visit.

Spring

In the spring, Raleigh receives very pleasant weather with average high temperatures ranging from low 70s to mid 80s (degrees Fahrenheit).

Summer

In the summer, average high temperatures will range from mid-80s to mid-90s (degrees Fahrenheit), often with high humidity. Sunscreen, sunglasses and staying hydrated are recommended. The wettest months of the year are July, Aug., and Sept.

Fall

Fall brings more beautiful weather with high temperatures back to the 60s and 70s, and low temperatures reaching into the 40s on some mornings and evenings (degrees Fahrenheit).

Winter

Winter can mean paying close attention to the forecasts, with average high temperatures in the low 50s but sometimes dipping well below that—temperatures are typically in the low 30s overnight during the winter months (degrees Fahrenheit). Fewer hours of sunlight during the winter mean more time spent below the high temperature for the day—you’ll want to check the forecast before visiting and be prepared to bring jackets, gloves, scarves and hats, which will help keep you comfortable. Snowfall is not out of the question—a few dustings per year may occur, with an occasional system that sees an inch or more of fluffy stuff stick to the ground. Some years may see very little or no snow at all, however.

How it feels in downtown Raleigh

Visiting downtown Raleigh? The “feels like” temperature—taking into account air temperature, wind speed and humidity—can often be 10 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than your weather app says in the winter months, thanks to shadows from the city skyline and a small wind-tunnel effect.

Warmest and coolest

On average, July is the warmest month of the year with an average high temperature of 90 (degrees Fahrenheit). January is the coolest month of the year with an average high temperature of 51 (degrees Fahrenheit).