Seattle weather in May
“Mild and bright — an underrated time to visit.”
Roughly 10 rainy days across the month, on average.
May is one of Seattle's most pleasant months. Daytime temperatures average 18.8°C (66°F), while nights cool to 9.7°C (50°F). You'll experience about 10 rainy days with 51mm of precipitation, but don't let that deter you—May also brings 10.2 hours of daily sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the city and nearby outdoor attractions. The rain tends to be light and intermittent rather than heavy downpours.
May marks the beginning of Seattle's festival season. The Pike Place Market buzzes with spring energy, cherry blossoms fade while summer flowers bloom, and locals emerge from their winter hibernation. Tourist crowds are moderate—significantly fewer than summer peak season but more than winter months. The atmosphere is optimistic and energetic as the city prepares for warmer weather ahead.
For travelers planning a 2026 visit, May offers excellent value. Hotel rates haven't peaked yet, and you'll avoid the July-August rush. Pack layers since mornings and evenings stay cool, but afternoons warm nicely. Bring a light rain jacket for those 10 expected rainy days, and you're set for one of the year's best times to visit Seattle.
What to pack for Seattle in May
Layer strategically for May's variable weather. Morning temperatures hover around 50°F, but afternoons reach the mid-60s. A light rain jacket is essential given the 10 rainy days, while breathable layers let you adjust as the day warms up.
- Light rain jacket or windbreaker
- Long-sleeve linen shirt
- Comfortable jeans or chinos
- Waterproof walking shoes or sneakers
- Lightweight cardigan or fleece layer
What to pack for Seattle in May
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Where to stay in Seattle
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Seattle across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Explore Pike Place Market, hike in Green Lake Park, visit Chihuly Garden and Glass, kayak Lake Union, take a ferry to Bainbridge Island.
May vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Seattle. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Seattle
May is one of the best months to visit Seattle — alongside June, July, August. Ten-year climate data confirms it: comfortable temperatures, manageable rainfall, and a healthy dose of sunshine.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for SeattleOther places with a similar climate right now
Seattle in May — FAQ
Q01Is May a good time to visit Seattle?
Is May a good time to visit Seattle?
Yes — it is a good time to visit, with pleasant, comfortable weather. In May, Seattle averages a high of 19°C (66°F) and a low of 10°C (49°F), with 51mm of rainfall across roughly 10 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Seattle in May?
What is the average temperature in Seattle in May?
The average high temperature in Seattle during May is 19°C (66°F), with an average low of 10°C (49°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Seattle have in May?
How many rainy days does Seattle have in May?
Seattle averages approximately 10 rainy days in May, with a total monthly rainfall of about 51mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Seattle in May?
What should I pack for Seattle in May?
For Seattle in May, pack layered clothing for changing temperatures, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Seattle in May?
How crowded is Seattle in May?
Tourist crowds in Seattle during May are typically moderate — shoulder season, a sweet spot between crowds and weather. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.