Tempe weather by month
Discover how the desert city of Tempe feels each month. Whether you’re planning a visit, moving, or just curious about the local weather, this guide provides clear, month‑by‑month details, a handy climate table, and quick answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Tempe Weather by Month
| Month | Avg. High (°F) | Avg. Low (°F) | Avg. Precipitation (in) | Avg. Sunshine (hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 52 | 30 | 0.41 | 8.3 |
| February | 55 | 33 | 0.47 | 8.6 |
| March | 64 | 40 | 0.57 | 9.0 |
| April | 76 | 50 | 0.53 | 9.5 |
| May | 90 | 61 | 0.34 | 10.2 |
| June | 105 | 69 | 0.17 | 10.5 |
| July | 111 | 74 | 0.07 | 11.4 |
| August | 110 | 72 | 0.05 | 11.1 |
| September | 101 | 65 | 0.09 | 10.4 |
| October | 86 | 54 | 0.36 | 9.5 |
| November | 68 | 43 | 0.46 | 8.6 |
| December | 54 | 31 | 0.47 | 8.2 |
All temperatures are averages for the city of Tempe, Arizona.
January: Cool and Dry
- Average high: 52 °F
- Average low: 30 °F
- Typical humidity: 30‑35 %
- What to expect: Light mornings and evenings; very few sunny days. Ideal for hiking outdoor trails at cooler temperatures.
February: Mild and Brightening
- Average high: 55 °F
- Average low: 33 °F
- Sunshine: 8.6 hrs/day
- Why it matters: Early spring with longer days and a gradual rise in temperatures—perfect for beach visits and early sports.
March: Spring’s Flourish
- Average high: 64 °F
- Average low: 40 °F
- Rainfall: 0.57 in
- Highlights: Mild evenings, blooming desert flora, and festival season kickoff. Great for exploring downtown Tempe.
April: Warm and Sunny
- Average high: 76 °F
- Average low: 50 °F
- Sunshine: 9.5 hrs/day
- Considerations: Heat starts building; dress in light, breathable clothing for outdoor activities.
May: Heat Begins to Rise
- Average high: 90 °F
- Average low: 61 °F
- Humidity: 24 %
- Tips: Hydration is key. Sunset is a safe time for extended walks.
June: Peak Pre‑Summer Heat
- Average high: 105 °F
- Average low: 69 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 5:30 am / 7:30 pm
- Recommendations: Early morning exercise; stay indoors during midday.
July: Sun‑Saturated Summers
- Average high: 111 °F
- Average low: 74 °F
- Rainfall: 0.07 in
- Must‑do: Visit the Tempe Town Lake paddle‑boat, attend outdoor concerts, and use the air-conditioned college campus.
August: Still Hot, but Shorter Days
- Average high: 110 °F
- Average low: 72 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 5:39 am / 7:30 pm
- Practical tip: Evening events are ideal to escape the heat.
September: Cooling Down Gradually
- Average high: 101 °F
- Average low: 65 °F
- Rainfall: 0.09 in
- Opportunity: Great for water‑related recreation in Tempe Town Lake.
October: Autumn’s Early Chill
- Average high: 86 °F
- Average low: 54 °F
- Sunshine: 9.5 hrs/day
- Experience: Pleasant evening walks and the first night of the Arizona desert’s mild autumn.
November: Cooler, Pre‑Winter Climate
- Average high: 68 °F
- Average low: 43 °F
- Rainfall: 0.46 in
- Good for: Visiting museums, exploring local restaurants, and preparing for winter packing.
December: Mild Winter Days
- Average high: 54 °F
- Average low: 31 °F
- Sunrise/Sunset: 6:23 am / 6:08 pm
- Tip: Use the relaxed temperatures to enjoy the holiday lights around downtown Tempe.
FAQ – Tempe Weather
What’s the best time of year to visit Tempe?
Late spring (May) or early fall (September) offer warm temperatures without the extreme summer heat.
When does Tempe usually see rainfall?
The wet season runs from November through March, with March typically receiving the most precipitation.
Is it hot in Tempe during the night?
Even in summer, nights are cooler; average lows remain in the 70s°F (around 21‑26 °C).
How much sun does Tempe get annually?
Approximately 330–340 sunny days per year, averaging 8–10 hours of sunshine daily.
- Do I need special clothing for Tempe’s desert climate?
Light, breathable fabrics for day, plus a light jacket or sweater for evenings, especially in winter months.
Resources
- Weather.com – Tempe, AZ Weather Forecast
- National Weather Service – Phoenix / Tempe Region
- Arizona Department of Tourism – Climate Overview
- Tempe Public Library – Local Climate Data
- University of Arizona Climate Center