Portland Weather
Every season in Portland brings unique weather conditions and changes to the city's outdoor scenery.
With four distinct seasons, Portland’s outdoor scenery and weather conditions transform every few months. Though the city’s weather is perhaps best known for being rainy, showers are typically gentle and short-lived — and locals don’t let that keep them from enjoying the city.
In fact, Portlanders know the rain is what nourishes the city’s abundance of public gardens, urban green spaces and wildlife preserves — all of which can be enjoyed year-round. So whether you’re visiting during the peak of summer or in the middle of winter, a trip to Portland is guaranteed to offer uniquely seasonal sights, delicious food and seemingly endless things to do (check out our events calendar to discover more).
Frequently Asked Questions About Portland Weather
What is the weather like in Portland, Oregon?
What is the coldest month in Portland?
What is the hottest month in Portland?
How should I dress for Portland Oregon weather?
Does it rain more in Portland or Seattle?
Contrary to popular opinion, neither Seattle nor Portland is the rainiest U.S. city; in fact, they’re not even in the top ten! New Orleans ranks first, with 62.7 inches; and Miami, Birmingham, Memphis, Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, New York, Houston and Atlanta all receive more than 49 inches of rain per year. Source: TripSavvy.
Is Portland sunnier than Seattle?
Average Monthly Temperatures in Portland
Average daily low and high temperatures recorded 1940–2019 at Portland International Airport (PDX) by the National Weather Service.
- January: 36–47 Fahrenheit (2–8 C)
- February: 36–51 Fahrenheit (2–11 C)
- March: 40–57 Fahrenheit (4–14 C)
- April: 43–61 Fahrenheit (6–16 C)
- May: 49–68 Fahrenheit (9–20 C)
- June: 54–74 Fahrenheit (12–23 C)
- July: 58–81 Fahrenheit (14–27 C)
- August: 58–81 Fahrenheit (14–27 C)
- September: 53–76 Fahrenheit (12–24 C)
- October: 46–64 Fahrenheit (8–18 C)
- November: 41–53 Fahrenheit (5–12 C)
- December: 35–46 Fahrenheit (2–8 C)
Average Monthly Rainfall in Portland
Rainfall amounts recorded in downtown Portland by the National Weather Service.
- January: 6.1 inches (15 cm)
- February: 4.6 inches (12 cm)
- March: 4.5 inches (11 cm)
- April: 3.4 inches (9 cm)
- May: 2.5 inches (6 cm)
- June: 1.7 inches (4 cm)
- July: 0.6 inches (2 cm)
- August: 0.7 inches (2 cm)
- September: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
- October: 3.4 inches (9 cm)
- November: 6.7 inches (17 cm)
- December: 6.9 inches (18 cm)
Seasonal Weather in Portland
Spring Weather in Portland
Spring in Portland brings continued rain showers, along with plenty of cloud-breaks and dry spells. Temperatures remain mild throughout the season, with the city getting progressively warmer as June approaches. Days often begin slightly rainy, but end with clear skies and sunshine. Due to Portland’s temperate climate, many flowers start blooming as early as March (and are on display at the city’s many verdant public parks and gardens).
What to Pack for a Spring Trip to Portland
For a springtime visit to Portland, we recommend packing layers and a rain-proof jacket. Waterproof boots will come in handy on muddy spring hikes and for splashing through Portland’s puddles.
Summer Weather in Portland
Summer in Portland is mostly warm and sometimes hot, with low humidity. Temperatures peak in August with an average daily high of 81 °F (27 °C), before starting to cool in September. Rain is rare and the evenings are long, with the sun not setting until around 9 p.m. in June and July.
What to Pack for a Summer Trip to Portland
If you’re visiting Portland in the summertime, we recommend packing typical warm weather attire (such as shorts, T-shirts and open-toed shoes) along with a light layer (such as a sweater or jacket) for cooler evenings. Sturdy footwear is also encouraged for those who want to take advantage of the many trails and hiking spots in and near Portland.
Fall Weather in Portland
Fall in Portland begins with mostly mild weather and partly sunny skies. Toward mid-October, rain showers become more common and leaves begin changing color (making hikes and outdoor strolls especially beautiful). Temperatures — and rain — both begin falling in earnest starting in November.
What to Pack for a Fall Trip to Portland
For a trip to Portland in the fall, we recommend packing warm layers and a rain-proof jacket. Old-school Portlanders tend to shun umbrellas, but they can come in handy to shield glasses and faces from heavier rain showers. To avoid getting stuck in the mud or soaked by a puddle, it’s worth packing a sturdy pair of rain boots.
Winter Weather in Portland
Winter in Portland is the coolest season of the year, with frequent rain showers and mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures remain mild by North American standards and significant snowfall is rare within Portland city limits. The increase in rain and drop in temperature make for great conditions at Mount Hood, where locals love to ski, snowboard, snowshoe or just cozy up to a fireplace with a warm drink in hand.
What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Portland
For a wintertime visit to Portland, we recommend packing multiple warm layers, such as a fleece jacket, a sturdy, rain-proof coat and waterproof shoes. For outdoor adventurers, bundle up with knitted caps and add layers underneath your clothes (especially if you plan to play in the snow on Mount Hood).
Experience the Seasons
Each season in Portland offers its own unique set of things to do, see and taste.
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