Best Time to Visit Seattle, Washington (2026)
The best time to visit Seattle is May through September, when average highs are 65-76°F with minimal rain. Avoid December when frequent rain (5.6") limits outdoor activities.
Month-by-Month Weather Overview
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Snow | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 47°F | 37°F | 5.6" | 1" | 2/10 |
| Feb | 50°F | 38°F | 3.5" | 0.5" | 4/10 |
| Mar | 53°F | 40°F | 3.7" | 0.5" | 5/10 |
| Apr | 58°F | 43°F | 2.8" | — | 7/10 |
| May | 65°F | 49°F | 2.2" | — | 9/10 |
| Jun | 70°F | 54°F | 1.5" | — | 10/10 |
| JulBest | 76°F | 58°F | 0.7" | — | 10/10 |
| Aug | 76°F | 58°F | 0.8" | — | 10/10 |
| Sep | 71°F | 53°F | 1.5" | — | 10/10 |
| Oct | 60°F | 46°F | 3.2" | — | 7/10 |
| Nov | 50°F | 40°F | 5.9" | 0.5" | 3/10 |
| Dec | 45°F | 35°F | 5.6" | 1.5" | 1/10 |
Tourism score: 1-10 (higher = better for visiting). Based on temperature comfort, rainfall, and humidity.
When NOT to Visit Seattle
December is the least ideal time to visit Seattle. Heavy rainfall averaging 5.6" can disrupt outdoor plans.
Seasonal Breakdown
Spring
Spring brings mild weather to Seattle, with highs around 59°F. Expect some rain (8.7" total) but increasingly pleasant days.
Summer
Seattle has mild summers with highs around 74°F — comfortable for extended outdoor exploration.
Fall
Fall brings comfortable temperatures to Seattle, with highs around 60°F. Often considered the best season to visit.
Winter
Seattle has mild winters with highs around 47°F. No heavy coats needed — a light jacket will do.
What to Pack for July in Seattle
- ✓Light layers
- ✓Sunglasses
- ✓Comfortable walking shoes
- ✓UV-protection sunglasses
Safety in Seattle
While you're planning, Seattle has a Very High Risk safety rating based on FBI crime data. See full safety report.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Seattle?
The best time to visit Seattle is May through September, when highs average 65-76°F with comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall. July scores highest for tourism at 10/10.
What is the weather like in Seattle in July?
In July, Seattle has average highs of 76°F and lows of 58°F. Expect 0.7" of rainfall and 60% humidity. Snow is not expected.
Does it snow in Seattle?
Yes, Seattle gets an average of 4.0" of snow per year across 2 months. Snowfall is light.
How hot does Seattle get?
The hottest month in Seattle is July, with average highs of 76°F and lows of 58°F. Humidity averages 60%. Summers are warm but generally manageable.
What should I pack for Seattle?
For the best time to visit (July): Light layers, Sunglasses, Comfortable walking shoes, UV-protection sunglasses. Adjust layers based on the season you're visiting.