Pittsburgh Weather Explained | Seasons, Snow, Rain & Climate Guide | doSh
Pittsburgh Weather Guide

Pittsburgh Weather Explained: Seasons, Snow, Rain, Humidity & What to Expect

A plain-English visual guide for residents, renters, homebuyers, visitors, and people relocating to Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh has four real seasons—cold winters, green springs, warm summers, and standout fall weather—with year-round rain that keeps the city lush. The adjustment is less about extremes and more about gray winters, steady rain, and fast-changing spring and fall days.

Last updated: May 2026

Weather varies year to year. Use official sources like the National Weather Service Pittsburgh for current forecasts, watches, warnings, and climate records. Charts below are planning-friendly climate averages—not live forecasts.

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Pittsburgh weather at a glance

Pittsburgh is very seasonal—not desert hot, not Gulf Coast humid, and not a northern snow belt. That makes it livable year-round for many people who want four distinct seasons without the harshest extremes. May through October is especially strong for rivers, parks, patios, and neighborhood exploring.

Four real seasons

Distinct winter, spring, summer, and fall—each with its own rhythm and local events.

Fall and late spring shine

September, October, and May are often favorites for walking, patios, and exploring neighborhoods.

Rivers, parks, and trails

Green hillsides and three rivers make warm months especially enjoyable outdoors.

Winters are real but manageable

Expect cold, cloudier stretches, and some snow—usually less punishing than lake-effect snow belts.

Summers are warm and green

July is typically the warmest month; AC matters, but mornings and evenings are great for outdoor life.

Steady rain keeps it lush

Rain falls throughout the year—pack layers and rain gear, and enjoy how green the city stays.

Pittsburgh weather by month

These charts use planning-friendly climate averages for the Pittsburgh area. Verify official climate normals through NOAA/NCEI and NWS Pittsburgh climate data.

Average high and low temperatures

Average high and low temperatures by month in Pittsburgh Planning averages from January through December. 90° 76° 63° 50° 36° 23° 10° January: high 37°F, low 24°F Jan 37° 24° February: high 41°F, low 26°F Feb 41° 26° March: high 51°F, low 34°F Mar 51° 34° April: high 63°F, low 44°F Apr 63° 44° May: high 72°F, low 53°F May 72° 53° June: high 80°F, low 62°F Jun 80° 62° July: high 83°F, low 66°F Jul 83° 66° August: high 81°F, low 64°F Aug 81° 64° September: high 75°F, low 57°F Sep 75° 57° October: high 63°F, low 47°F Oct 63° 47° November: high 52°F, low 38°F Nov 52° 38° December: high 42°F, low 29°F Dec 42° 29°

Red bars span average lows to highs. Labels show monthly high (top) and low (bottom).

Rainfall and snowfall

Average rainfall and snowfall by month Rain in blue; snow in hatched bars. January rain 1.6 in January snow 3.1 in Jan February rain 1.6 in February snow 3.5 in Feb March rain 2.3 in March snow 2.0 in Mar April rain 2.7 in April snow 0.1 in Apr May rain 3.2 in May June rain 3.4 in Jun July rain 3.1 in Jul August rain 2.8 in Aug September rain 2.7 in Sep October rain 2.3 in Oct November rain 2.5 in November snow 0.4 in Nov December rain 2.2 in December snow 2.0 in Dec ■ Rain (in) ▧ Snow (in)

Snow is shown with a hatch pattern so it is distinct from rain without relying on color alone.

Clearer skies by month

Percent of time with clearer skies by month January: 32% clearer 32% Jan February: 35% clearer 35% Feb March: 42% clearer 42% Mar April: 46% clearer 46% Apr May: 48% clearer 48% May June: 54% clearer 54% Jun July: 61% clearer 61% Jul August: 64% clearer 64% Aug September: 64% clearer 64% Sep October: 57% clearer 57% Oct November: 46% clearer 46% Nov December: 36% clearer 36% Dec

Clearer months cluster in late summer and early fall—another reason September and October feel so good.

January

High 37°F · Low 24°F · Rain 1.6 in · Snow 3.1 in · 32% clearer

Best for: Museums, sports, holiday events, cozy restaurants.
Plan for: Coat, boots, parking access, extra commute time on slick days.

February

High 41°F · Low 26°F · Rain 1.6 in · Snow 3.5 in · 35% clearer

Best for: Indoor culture, short sunny-day walks as daylight grows.
Plan for: Winter layers and waterproof boots.

March

High 51°F · Low 34°F · Rain 2.3 in · Snow 2.0 in · 42% clearer

Best for: Early neighborhood exploring as parks green up.
Plan for: Layers, rain jacket, temperature swings.

April

High 63°F · Low 44°F · Rain 2.7 in · Snow 0.1 in · 46% clearer

Best for: Parks, outdoor markets, baseball season.
Plan for: Rain gear and flexible layers.

May

High 72°F · Low 53°F · Rain 3.2 in · Snow 0 in · 48% clearer

Best for: Walking neighborhoods, patios, parks—often a top month for newcomers.
Plan for: Light rain layer; verify AC if staying into summer.

June

High 80°F · Low 62°F · Rain 3.4 in · Snow 0 in · 54% clearer

Best for: Rivers, festivals, pools, evening patios.
Plan for: AC, sunscreen, brief evening storms.

July

High 83°F · Low 66°F · Rain 3.1 in · Snow 0 in · 61% clearer

Best for: Pools, rivers, baseball, evening events.
Plan for: Effective AC and hydration.

August

High 81°F · Low 64°F · Rain 2.8 in · Snow 0 in · 64% clearer

Best for: Outdoor living, kayaking, late-summer festivals.
Plan for: AC and light rain layer.

September

High 75°F · Low 57°F · Rain 2.7 in · Snow 0 in · 64% clearer

Best for: Walking, patios, exploring before winter—often a favorite month.
Plan for: Light layers for cooler evenings.

October

High 63°F · Low 47°F · Rain 2.3 in · Snow 0 in · 57% clearer

Best for: Fall foliage, football, festivals, neighborhood walks.
Plan for: Layers and comfortable walking shoes.

November

High 52°F · Low 38°F · Rain 2.5 in · Snow 0.4 in · 46% clearer

Best for: Early holiday events, indoor culture.
Plan for: Warmer layers and earlier sunsets.

December

High 42°F · Low 29°F · Rain 2.2 in · Snow 2.0 in · 36% clearer

Best for: Holiday lights, museums, winter city views.
Plan for: Winter coat, boots, snow removal and parking access.

Pittsburgh seasons at a glance

Each season has practical trade-offs—and real upsides. Hills, rivers, and neighborhood layout can shift how conditions feel block to block.

Spring: March to May

What it feels like
Wet, green, changeable, and increasingly comfortable.
Plan for
Rain jackets, layers, and temperature swings.
Local upside
Parks green up quickly, patio season starts, baseball returns, and neighborhoods come alive.
Honest note
Steady rain keeps the city lush—there is no true dry season, so rain gear earns its place.

Summer: June to August

What it feels like
Warm, humid, active, and social—July is typically the warmest month.
Plan for
Air conditioning, sunscreen, hydration, and a light rain layer for evening storms.
Local upside
Rivers, kayaking, festivals, patios, parks, Kennywood, and long outdoor evenings.
Honest note
Humidity peaks in midsummer; outdoor space and AC make the season much more comfortable.

Fall: September to November

What it feels like
Comfortable early, crisp and colorful later—often Pittsburgh at its best.
Plan for
Layers, cooler nights, and shorter days by November.
Local upside
September and October are favorites for walking, fall foliage, football, festivals, and outdoor dining.
Honest note
Many newcomers rank fall among the top reasons they enjoy living here.

Winter: December to February

What it feels like
Cold and quieter, with cloudier stretches and periodic snow and ice.
Plan for
Coats, boots, parking access, and extra commute time on slick days.
Local upside
Holiday events, cozy restaurants, museums, sports, and striking winter city views on clear days.
Honest note
Cloudiness and shorter daylight can matter as much as snowfall—homes with good natural light help.
Jun6.6 Jul11.7 Aug9.7 Sep3.8

Approximate muggy days per month (planning averages). Humidity eases into September.

Best months for different Pittsburgh activities

May through October shows a lot of green on this chart—Pittsburgh outdoor life is a major reason people enjoy living here.

Swipe sideways on phones to see all months.

Best Good Mixed Indoor season — Not this season

“Indoor season” means weather favors indoor options (e.g. patios in winter). “—” means that row usually does not apply that month (e.g. snow planning in July).

ActivityJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Walking neighborhoodsIndoor seasonIndoor seasonMixedGoodBestBestGoodBestBestBestMixedIndoor season
Patio diningIndoor seasonIndoor seasonMixedGoodBestBestBestBestBestGoodMixedIndoor season
River activitiesIndoor seasonIndoor seasonIndoor seasonMixedGoodBestBestBestBestMixedIndoor seasonIndoor season
Parks and trailsIndoor seasonIndoor seasonMixedGoodBestBestBestBestBestBestMixedIndoor season
Fall foliage--------Mixed------GoodBestGood--
Holiday/winter activitiesBestBestMixed--------------GoodBest
Moving/relocation comfortMixedMixedGoodBestBestGoodGoodBestBestBestMixedMixed
Outdoor home maintenanceIndoor seasonIndoor seasonMixedBestBestBestGoodBestBestGoodMixedIndoor season
Snow/ice planningBestBestBestMixed------------GoodBest

Plan your Pittsburgh home around the weather

Weather is not just temperature. Hills, parking, natural light, garage access, walkability, and outdoor space shape day-to-day life—and Pittsburgh rewards homes that match how you will actually live through four seasons.

Garage or off-street parking

Valuable in winter storms and tight neighborhoods.

Natural light

Especially helpful during cloudier winter weeks and work-from-home days.

Air conditioning

Important for comfortable summers—verify before a June–August stay.

Walkability

Lets you enjoy strong spring, summer, and fall days without always driving.

Outdoor space

Patios, yards, and porches shine from late spring through fall.

Hills and driveways

Test access before committing—snow and ice matter on slopes.

Commute route

Rain and winter weather can affect bridges, hills, and tunnels.

Laundry and mudroom space

Practical for rainy springs and snowy winters.

Weather checklist before moving or signing a lease

  • Ask whether the home has central AC or effective cooling.
  • Ask about garage, off-street parking, or permit parking.
  • Check driveway slope and winter access.
  • Ask who handles snow and ice removal.
  • Consider natural light if working from home in winter.
  • Pack layers, rain gear, winter coat and boots, and summer clothing for a full-year move.
  • Check commute route during winter and heavy rain.
  • If you have pets or kids, consider yard access and mudroom/laundry convenience.
  • Use NWS for forecasts and warnings.
  • Use 511PA for winter road conditions.

City vs suburb weather planning

Swipe sideways on phones to reveal the suburb column.

TopicCity neighborhoodsSuburban or hillside areas
Snow and iceMain streets may be treated quickly, but parking and narrow streets can be challenging.Driveway slope, elevation, and neighborhood road treatment can matter more.
Heat and humidityDense areas can feel warmer; AC and shade matter.More yard/tree cover in some areas, but AC still matters.
Rain and drainageLow-lying streets, basements, and storm drains can matter.Slopes, driveways, retaining walls, and drainage matter.
WalkabilityEasier to enjoy good-weather days without driving in many neighborhoods.More car-dependent, but often more yard and outdoor space.
Best next stepCheck parking, natural light, AC, and winter sidewalk responsibilities.Check driveway slope, road treatment, drainage, and commute route.

Pittsburgh weather questions

Does Pittsburgh have four seasons?

Yes. Pittsburgh has distinct winters, springs, summers, and falls. Many residents value the rhythm: cozy winters, green springs, active summers, and standout fall color.

How cold are Pittsburgh winters?

January is typically the coldest month, with average temperatures often ranging from the 20s at night to the upper 30s during the day. Conditions vary year to year.

Does Pittsburgh get a lot of snow?

Pittsburgh gets snow, but winter is not only about snowfall. Cloudiness, ice, hills, short daylight, and freeze-thaw conditions are often just as important for daily life.

Is Pittsburgh cloudy?

Pittsburgh can feel cloudier in winter, but late spring through early fall is often brighter—and sunny winter days on the hillsides are memorable.

Is Pittsburgh humid in the summer?

Yes. Summer is warm and humid, especially from June through August. Air conditioning is important for many guests and residents.

What is the best weather month in Pittsburgh?

September and October are widely loved for comfort and scenery. May, June, and August are also excellent for outdoor life, depending on your heat and humidity preferences.

What should I pack for a Pittsburgh move?

Pack layers, rain gear, winter coat and boots, comfortable walking shoes, and summer clothing. If you are staying through multiple seasons, plan for temperature swings.

Official sources and helpful links

This page explains typical Pittsburgh weather. For current conditions, alerts, air quality, and road conditions, rely on official sources below.

NWS Pittsburgh Forecast NWS Pittsburgh Climate AirNow 511PA Road Conditions Climate Prediction Center
National Weather Service PittsburghLocal forecast office NWS Pittsburgh ForecastCurrent conditions and alerts NWS Pittsburgh Climate PageClimate data and records NOAA / NCEI Climate NormalsU.S. climate normals NOAA Climate Normals Quick AccessStation-level normals Climate Prediction CenterLong-range outlooks AirNowAir quality 511PA Road ConditionsWinter and storm travel City of Pittsburgh Snow AngelsVolunteer snow support program WeatherSpark Pittsburgh ClimateThird-party climate charts Visit Pittsburgh WeatherVisitor-oriented overview
Pittsburgh Taxes Pittsburgh Schools Pittsburgh Traffic Pittsburgh Crime Pittsburgh Amenities Pittsburgh Attractions Shadyside Info

Why people enjoy living in Pittsburgh year-round

Pittsburgh weather is not perfect—but it supports a city people choose to stay in. Four seasons mean real change without the harshest extremes. Strong fall and spring walking weather, green summers along the rivers, and a walkable, event-rich winter culture are part of why relocators often warm to the region once they experience a full year.

If you are comparing cities, visiting neighborhoods in May, September, or October is a practical way to see Pittsburgh at its most inviting—while still planning honestly for winter and summer.

Moving to Pittsburgh and still figuring out seasons, neighborhoods, and housing?

If you are relocating to Pittsburgh, comparing neighborhoods, or waiting to decide where to live long term, a furnished doSh home can give you time to settle in before making a permanent decision.

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