Washington DC Weather in October
United States · Humid Subtropical climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
October in Washington DC sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 10.6°C (51.1°F) to a high of 20.4°C (68.7°F), with a mean of 15.1°C (59.2°F). Compared to the annual average of 14.2°C (57.6°F), this month is 0.9°C warmer than the yearly norm. Precipitation averages 92.4mm, making it approximately 26.0mm drier than the monthly average of 119.0mm. The city receives an average of 8.1 hours of sunshine per day during October, with relative humidity averaging 74.0%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 15.5 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a temperature experience in Washington DC, with drier-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
There's something about Washington DC in late March when the cherry blossoms peak that turns the political city into something tender. I stood at the Tidal Basin one spring as 3,000 trees bloomed pink against the Jefferson Memorial — the data says peak bloom is usually the last week of March to first week of April, around 15°C. Summer (June-August) is famously brutal: 30°C with 70% humidity, the kind that makes the National Mall feel like a sauna. October is DC's secret weapon: 18°C, golden leaves along the Mall, and the cultural season reopening. Winter is quieter and the museums are empty — a trade-off worth making.
October vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | September | October | November |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 20.7°C (69.3°F) | 15.1°C (59.2°F) | 9.2°C (48.6°F) |
| Rainfall | 134.0mm | 92.4mm | 90.9mm |
| Sunshine | 8.9 hrs | 8.1 hrs | 7.9 hrs |
| Humidity | 74.2% | 74.0% | 68.7% |
| Wind | 14.6 km/h | 15.5 km/h | 17.3 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 14.4 | 12.8 | 9.0 |
| Snowfall | 0.0 cm | 0.0 cm | 0.2 cm |
Seasonal Context
October falls in Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. Autumn sees temperatures gradually cooling from summer highs. For travelers visiting Washington DC in October, the data indicates favorable conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Washington DC in October?
The average temperature in Washington DC during October ranges from 10.6°C (51.1°F) to 20.4°C (68.7°F), with a mean of 15.1°C (59.2°F).
How much does it rain in Washington DC in October?
Washington DC receives an average of 92.4mm of precipitation in October, spread across approximately 12.8 rainy days.
What should I pack for Washington DC in October?
Based on October weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella.
Is October a good time to visit Washington DC?
October is a good time to visit Washington DC, with comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall.
Other Months for Washington DC
Cities with Similar October Climate (Humid Subtropical)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 38.9°, -77.04°. Timezone: America/New_York. Last updated: 2026-07-30.