The climate of Ocean City
Ocean City,
New Jersey, USA falls under the Köppen climate classification Cfa, which typifies it as a subtropical, humid region with no discernible dry season. This coastal city is located on the eastern coast of the United States, predominantly influenced by its geographical positioning and the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout the year, Ocean City undergoes noticeable variations in each of its climate parameters, helping to determine the changing seasons. Average temperatures fluctuate from a low of 31.3°F (-0.4°C) in
January to a peak of 80.4°F (26.9°C) in
July. Consequently, the city experiences cold winters and warm summers, transitioned by mild yet perceptible spring and fall seasons.
Precipitation levels follow a distinctive pattern; rainfall retains its presence throughout the year, at monthly averages ranging from a minimum of 0.35" (9mm) in
September to a maximum of 0.79" (20mm) in
May and
August. The number of rainy days mirrors the quantity of precipitation, with an increase from 5.7 days in
November to 11.8 days in July and emerging relatively constant in the remaining months.
Unique weather conditions manifest in terms of humidity and sunshine hours. The city maintains an average relative humidity of approximately 75% throughout the year, with slight variations. In terms of daylight, Ocean City reaches its zenith in
June, providing an average of 14.9 hours of daylight, and descends to a nadir in
December, with 9.5 hours. A correspondingly similar pattern is found with sunshine hours, hitting a peak in July with 11 hours and decreasing progressively until December to a minimal 5.2 hours.
The best time to visit Ocean City
Ocean City offers an excellent climate for tourists in the period from
June to
September. With average high temperatures primarily staying between 74.3°F (23.5°C) to 79.5°F (26.4°C), the city provides a warm, appealing environment ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach visits. Rainfall is relatively modest during this period, while the sea temperature soars to a comfortable range between 67.3°F (19.6°C) to 76.5°F (24.7°C). These conditions, along with extended hours of daylight and sunshine, make it the preferred time for a visit.
The worst time to visit Ocean City
The period from
December to
February can be considered less desirable for tourists due to colder weather conditions. The average temperatures cut back to chillier values from 31.3°F (-0.4°C) to 41.9°F (5.5°C). Despite having lower rainfall accumulations, the colder environment and decreased daylight and sunshine hours may restrict outdoor activities.
Spring weather in Ocean City
Spring in
Ocean City, extending from
March to
May, exhibits a substantial upswing in temperature. These months witness a modulation from an average low of 38.3°F (3.5°C) in March to an average high of 64.9°F (18.3°C) in May. Alongside the temperature increase, there is a relatively consistent rise in rainfall, with May having a peak average precipitation of 0.79" (20mm). The daylight hours also display a consistent rise, offering an ample room for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Ocean City
The summer months of
June through
August present the warmest conditions of the year with temperatures cresting at an average high of 80.4°F (26.9°C) in
July. The city records a slight dip in rainfall in June, followed by a subtle increase in July and August. The sea temperature during this period climbs, reaching a height of 76.5°F (24.7°C) in August. Daylight reaches its maximum, allowing visitors and residents to make the most out of the summer season.
Autumn weather in Ocean City
Autumn, spanning from
September to
November, features a gradual declivity in temperature, transitioning from an average high of 74.3°F (23.5°C) in September to an average low of 45.5°F (7.5°C) in November. Despite a slight increase in rainfall in
October, the precipitation levels show a steady decrease over this period. Decreasing daylight hours and a cooling sea provide clear signs of the forthcoming winter season.
Winter weather in Ocean City
Characterised by cold conditions, winter in
Ocean City extends from
December to
February. The average high temperature stays below the 50°F (10°C) mark, while the average low temperature dips to a chilly 31.3°F (-0.4°C) in
January with an occasional snowfall. Despite the lower temperatures, rainfall remains relatively moderate, reaching peaks of 0.71" (18mm) in December and February. With lower daylight and sunshine hours, winter wraps Ocean City in its colder blanket.
Weather in January
Snow in
Ocean City,
New Jersey is uncommon yet
January, with an average snowfall of only 0.2" (5mm), is one of the two months where it can occur. The winter chill in January provides a winded-down atmosphere in town. The evenings are particularly blissful with the quiet sea waves and the serene, star-studded sky.
Weather in January »Weather in February
Temperatures climb slightly in
February compared to
January, but the overall weather remains markedly low. Wintry weather persists in
Ocean City,
New Jersey throughout February with a continuation of the cold conditions. Despite the winter conditions, exploring the dormant nature of the local parks proves a unique thrill for many visitors.
Weather in February »Weather in March
In
March, the cold season starts losing its grip over
Ocean City,
New Jersey, with temperatures reaching as high as 47.1°F (8.4°C). The town begins to wake from its winter slumber, readying itself for the upcoming season. The impact of snow on the city's life starts dwindling in March.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April experiences a significant rise in temperature, allowing spring to flourish completely in
Ocean City. The city blossoms with the onset of spring, bringing in the marvels of the season. A greater variety of outdoor activities open up with the backdrop of beautiful cherry blossoms.
Weather in April » Weather in May
Yet another upward adjustment in temperatures is seen in
May, indications of the forthcoming summer. The beach becomes a prime location among locals and tourists in
Ocean City,
New Jersey. The ocean, with an average temperature of 55.8°F (13.2°C), begins welcoming swimmers steadily.
Weather in May »Weather in June
In
June, the warm summer is in full swing with sea temperatures peaking at 67.3°F (19.6°C). The pleasant warm weather attracts multitudes to
Ocean City's beach. Ocean City,
New Jersey's open-air concerts and food festivals thrive in the summer glory, providing joy to each visitor.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
With the highest average temperatures reaching 80.4°F (26.9°C),
July stands as the hottest month in
Ocean City,
New Jersey. The city buzzes with life during this peak summer month. The sundrenched beach and vibrant sea lead the thoughts of visitors.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August maintains high temperatures from
July, making it an excellent time to enjoy outdoor activities. As summer continues, visitors can enjoy the splendid view of
Ocean City,
New Jersey from a parasail. Fishermen can revel with perfect sea conditions, with the water reaching temperatures as high as 76.5°F (24.7°C).
Weather in August » Weather in September
The mercury starts dipping in
September, signaling the arrival of the fall season.
Ocean City,
New Jersey redefines beauty as the lively summer morphs into a peaceful yet vibrant autumn. The fall season ushers in milder temperatures but still warm enough for outdoor activities.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October sees the start of a cool down, yet remains pleasant with its temperate conditions. As the fist of autumn, vibrant fall colors paint
Ocean City,
New Jersey in shades of yellow, orange and red. The coastline turns into a beautiful blend of summer remembrance and fall arrival.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November experiences a significant drop in temperature, leaning more towards a wintery feel.
Ocean City,
New Jersey's texture changes as fall gives way to winter, cooling the shores and hardening the sand. It's a wonderful time to enjoy both bayside and oceanfront dining at various cozy restaurants.
Weather in November » Weather in December
The temperature continues to decrease in
December to make it one of the coldest months in
Ocean City,
New Jersey. The holiday spirit coats the city, amplifying the visual grandeur of the winter season. With an average daylight of 9.5 hours, outdoor activities are limited but enjoyable.
Weather in December »