Los Angeles Weather in May
United States · Mediterranean climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
May in Los Angeles sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 13.2°C (55.8°F) to a high of 24.8°C (76.6°F), with a mean of 18.0°C (64.4°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.8°C (64.0°F), this month is 0.2°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 7.4mm, making it approximately 33.0mm drier than the monthly average of 40.0mm. The city receives an average of 11.3 hours of sunshine per day during May, with relative humidity averaging 67.6%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 19.4 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Los Angeles, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
LA's reputation for perfect weather is mostly earned — but the microclimates will trick you. I packed for Santa Monica's 22°C and froze in Pacific Palisades' morning fog. September is the secret heat wave: 30°C inland, smoggy, oppressive. Pack layers even in summer — the marine layer keeps the coast 5°C cooler than 5km inland. May and October are my favorite windows: clear, 23°C, less traffic. Skip July-August if you're beach-phobic; the crowds at Venice are intense. December-March is underrated — 18°C, empty hiking trails, occasional dramatic rain.
May vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | April | May | June |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 16.4°C (61.5°F) | 18.0°C (64.4°F) | 20.6°C (69.1°F) |
| Rainfall | 25.2mm | 7.4mm | 9.3mm |
| Sunshine | 10.8 hrs | 11.3 hrs | 12.1 hrs |
| Humidity | 65.3% | 67.6% | 66.3% |
| Wind | 19.3 km/h | 19.4 km/h | 19.0 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 6.0 | 5.0 | 2.8 |
Seasonal Context
May falls in Spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring is a transitional season with temperatures rising from winter lows. For travelers visiting Los Angeles in May, the data indicates favorable conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Los Angeles in May?
The average temperature in Los Angeles during May ranges from 13.2°C (55.8°F) to 24.8°C (76.6°F), with a mean of 18.0°C (64.4°F).
How much does it rain in Los Angeles in May?
Los Angeles receives an average of 7.4mm of precipitation in May, spread across approximately 5.0 rainy days.
What should I pack for Los Angeles in May?
Based on May weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella.
Is May a good time to visit Los Angeles?
May is a good time to visit Los Angeles, with comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall.
Other Months for Los Angeles
Cities with Similar May Climate (Mediterranean)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 34.05°, -118.24°. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles. Last updated: 2026-07-30.