Climate and monthly weather forecast
Cambridge, MA

Share
The John Weeks Memorial Footbridge in Cambridge, Massachusetts, over the Charles River calm waters, and a distant view of the Havard University student residence unit
The John Weeks Memorial Footbridge in Cambridge, Massachusetts, over the Charles River calm waters, and a distant view of the Havard University student residence unit

The climate of Cambridge

Cambridge, Massachusetts sees a highly varied seasonal cycle as per the Köppen climate classification Dfa, marking it as a place with a humid continental climate, no dry season and a hot summer period. This characteristic climate scheme is mainly due to Cambridge's geographical locus in the northern hemisphere and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout the year, Cambridge experiences a substantial fluctuation in weather parameters including temperature, rainfall, daylight and wind. The yearly temperature range varies from a low of 22.5°F (-5.3°C) in cold season to a high of 81.9°F (27.7°C) in warmer period, depicting Cambridge's broad spectrum of temperatures. The yearly average rainfall measurement spans from 0.2" (5mm) in September to as high as 0.63" (16mm) in November, indicating notable variation in precipitation levels.
The daylight hours reflect the city's northern latitude, fluctuating from 9.1 hours in December to an ample 15.2 hours in mid-summer, creating noticeable changes in day lengths throughout the year. Wind speed averages also alter with the seasons. Speeds are relatively higher in the cooler weather, peaking to 9.5mph (15.3km/h) in January, and taper down to 6.1mph (9.8km/h) in the warmest month of July.
Emphasizing unique aspects, June to August experiences the hottest months with temperatures frequently hitting the scale beyond 80°F (26.7°C). On the contrary, the city finds its chilliest phase during December to February when temperatures often dip far below 30°F (-1.1°C). November presents as the wettest month, while September remains relatively dry with minimal rainfall.

The best time to visit Cambridge

Analyzing the weather patterns and climatic parameters, the best time to visit Cambridge would be in late spring to early summer between May and June. Accommodating temperatures from 55.6°F (13.1°C) to 74.5°F (23.6°C), these months offer comfortable climatic conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The moderate presence of rain during this period might bring temporary showers but shouldn't significantly hinder most plans. Furthermore, the daylight hours extending up to 14.6 hours in May and 15.2 hours in June ensure a longer day, providing ample time to explore Cambridge's attractions.

The worst time to visit Cambridge

Although each season holds its charm, winter months from December to February might prove challenging for visits given their low temperatures that fall below 30°F (-1.1°C) on an average. Combined with high humidity levels reaching up to 76% and regular snowfall, it can produce a rather harsh and cold weather experience. However, those who love snow and winter sports might find these conditions appealing.

Spring weather in Cambridge

Spring in Cambridge starts in March and continues until May, demonstrating a gradual rise in temperature from 43.3°F (6.3°C) to 66.7°F (19.3°C). Rainfall increases progressively, peaking at 0.59" (15mm) in April. The receding cold can still be felt during the night with temperatures dipping to 40.1°F (4.5°C), especially in early spring. However, daylight hours increase significantly, marking the transition from winter gloom to brighter spring days.

Summer weather in Cambridge

Summertime is prominently warm in Cambridge from June through August, with average highs soaring up to 81.9°F (27.7°C) in July. Nights offer little respite from the heat with temperatures hovering around 64.6°F (18.1°C). The summer months also bring substantial rainfall averaging around 0.51" (13mm) in June. The wind speed during this period drops to its yearly low at 6.1mph (9.8km/h), offering sultry days with relatively weak breezes.

Autumn weather in Cambridge

Autumn weather in Cambridge puts on display a pleasant drop in temperature from 72.9°F (22.7°C) in September to 49.5°F (9.7°C) in November. The level of rainfall also sees a significant rise, peaking at 0.63" (16mm) during November. While daylight hours gradually decrease, autumn proves to be a balanced time with moderate climate conditions.

Winter weather in Cambridge

Cambridge's winter commences in December and lasts till February. This period is predominantly cold with average high temperatures only reaching up to 39.6°F (4.2°C), while the lows can plunge to a chilling 22.5°F (-5.3°C). In addition to icy temperatures, winter months witness frequent snowfall with measurements up to 0.71" (18mm) in December. These months also feature reduced daylight hours, with December only offering 9.1 hours of daylight, lending a distinct cold and harsh ambiance to the city during this period.

Weather in January

January in Cambridge, Massachusetts predominantly delivers snowfall, a common characteristic of weather in this area in winter. With a typical mix of snow-affected and dry days, the climate often alternates from snowy conditions to clear skies. Weather in January »

Weather in February

As the month follows suit to its predecessor, February in Cambridge, Massachusetts continues to display winter's grip. Residents have grown acclimated to the chill by now. The trademark flurries of snow and bracing winds bring with them a reminder of the strength of Massachusetts' winter. Weather in February »

Weather in March

By the time March arrives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the hard-hitting winter begins to loosen its hold. Warmth starts returning to the weather patterns, signaling the beginning of the thaw. Patches of snow start melting, and the familiar chirping of birds signifies the arrival of spring. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April is a month of true transformation in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with the definitive arrival of spring. Traces of winter have finally faded and the city basks in the pleasant and mild temperatures. The beautiful blossoming of flora is hard to overlook, adding vibrancy to the city. Weather in April »

Weather in May

The mild weather of April gives way to the warming month of May in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A substantial hike in temperatures makes the days considerably warmer, while evenings remain cool and comfortable. The city landscape is teeming with life as flowers bloom and trees are lush. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June brings the introductory tastes of summer to Cambridge, Massachusetts. The city comes alive under the extended hours of daylight and the balmy weather. Folks begin to throng at local parks, engage in outdoor sports, and soak up the sunshine. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July is the prime summer month in Cambridge, Massachusetts, showcasing the year's highest temperatures. Frequent trips to nearby lakes and beaches become a favorite pastime for residents. Clear blue skies, vibrant green landscapes, and warmer nights describe this quintessential summer month. Weather in July »

Weather in August

The city of Cambridge, Massachusetts, experiences an extended summer season in August. The warm weather continues, offering breathtaking sunsets over Charles River and lively evenings in outdoor cafés. Milder nights provide a welcome relief from the heat of the day. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September stands as a transition month in Cambridge, Massachusetts, marking the shift from summer to autumn. The weather becomes cooler, and the deciduous trees begin showing hints of fall colors. Locals enjoy outdoor activities as the weather remains warm but not excessively hot. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October in Cambridge, Massachusetts sees the full summary of autumn. With vibrant fall foliage adorning the city, the weather grows crisp and calls for light jackets. The streets brim with Halloween decorations towards the month's close, adding to the seasonal atmosphere. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Cambridge, Massachusetts is a month with brisk weather and earlier sunsets, pointing towards the arrival of winter. The deciduous trees shed their leaves, leaving behind a carpet of vibrant colors. The once-bustling parks slowly quiet down as cool breezes become more frequent. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December marks the onset of winter in Cambridge, Massachusetts. White-covered landscapes and Christmas decorations create a picturesque ambiance. The winter chill can be felt, but snowfall remains at the lower end, making travel less challenging. Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 31, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What is the coldest time of year?

Cambridge experiences its average lowest temperatures in January, reaching a peak of 33.8°F (1°C) and a minimum of 22.5°F (-5.3°C).

What is the most humid month in Cambridge?

The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 77%.

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 81.8 rainfall days, and 5.51" (140mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow in Cambridge?

January through May, November and December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 16.8 snowfall days, and 2.4" (61mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Cambridge?

The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Cambridge?

With an average of 4.7h of sunshine, February has the least sunshine of the year.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is April, with an average relative humidity of 69%.

When it does not snow?

June through October are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 12min of daylight.

What is the month with the highest UV index?

The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.

What part of the year is the hottest?

Cambridge reaches its average highest temperatures in July, measuring 81.9°F (27.7°C) at the peak and 64.6°F (18.1°C) at the lowest.

What month has the most sunshine?

The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 6.4 days and typically collects 0.2" (5mm) of precipitation.

What is the rainiest month?

The month with the most rainfall in Cambridge is November, when the rain falls for 4.7 days and typically aggregates up to 0.63" (16mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow the most?

The month with the most snowfall is December, when snow falls for 2.7 days and typically aggregates up to 0.71" (18mm) of snow.

What is the month with the shortest days?

With an average of 9h and 6min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.

Average temperature
Cambridge, MA

Average temperature - Cambridge, MA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (81.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (33.8°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (64.6°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (22.5°F).

Average pressure
Cambridge, MA

Average pressure - Cambridge, MA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).

Average wind speed
Cambridge, MA

Average wind speed - Cambridge, MA

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (6mph).

Average humidity
Cambridge, MA

Average humidity - Cambridge, MA

The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (77%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (69%).

Average rainfall
Cambridge, MA

Average rainfall - Cambridge, MA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is November (0.63").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (0.2").

Average rainfall days
Cambridge, MA

Average rainfall days - Cambridge, MA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (9.6 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (4.3 days).

Average snowfall
Cambridge, MA

Average snowfall - Cambridge, MA

The month with the highest snowfall is December (0.71").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Cambridge, MA

Average snowfall days - Cambridge, MA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (4.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Cambridge, MA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Cambridge, MA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).

The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 42min).

Average sunshine days
Cambridge, MA

Average sunshine days - Cambridge, MA

The month with the most sunshine days is January (23.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (17.4 days).

Average UV index
Cambridge, MA

Average UV index - Cambridge, MA

The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).

Average visibility
Cambridge, MA

Average visibility - Cambridge, MA

The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).

Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA

Weather forecast for your location

1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location