Boston Weather in May
United States · Humid Continental climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
May in Boston sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 9.7°C (49.5°F) to a high of 20.1°C (68.2°F), with a mean of 14.8°C (58.6°F). Compared to the annual average of 11.2°C (52.2°F), this month is 3.6°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 86.9mm, making it approximately 15.0mm drier than the monthly average of 102.0mm. The city receives an average of 10.8 hours of sunshine per day during May, with relative humidity averaging 66.2%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 21.3 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Boston, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
Boston's four distinct seasons make it one of the most dynamic New England cities for climate study. I've tracked the data and found that the city experiences beautiful autumns, cold winters, mild springs, and warm summers. The best time for visiting is May to October, with September being the ideal month for comfortable temperatures and the famous fall foliage.
May vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | April | May | June |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 8.4°C (47.1°F) | 14.8°C (58.6°F) | 20.4°C (68.7°F) |
| Rainfall | 98.6mm | 86.9mm | 75.6mm |
| Sunshine | 8.5 hrs | 10.8 hrs | 11.4 hrs |
| Humidity | 68.8% | 66.2% | 69.8% |
| Wind | 23.5 km/h | 21.3 km/h | 19.8 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 15.0 | 14.0 | 16.8 |
| Snowfall | 4.0 cm | 0.0 cm | 0.0 cm |
Seasonal Context
May falls in Spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring is a transitional season with temperatures rising from winter lows. For travelers visiting Boston in May, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Boston in May?
The average temperature in Boston during May ranges from 9.7°C (49.5°F) to 20.1°C (68.2°F), with a mean of 14.8°C (58.6°F).
How much does it rain in Boston in May?
Boston receives an average of 86.9mm of precipitation in May, spread across approximately 14.0 rainy days.
What should I pack for Boston in May?
Based on May weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is May a good time to visit Boston?
May is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Boston
Cities with Similar May Climate (Humid Continental)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 42.36°, -71.06°. Timezone: America/New_York. Last updated: 2026-07-30.