If you’re thinking of moving to the lovely Grit City, you should consider the Tacoma Washington climate and if it will fit your desires. Living in Tacoma is excellent; there are ample outdoor activities, beautiful waterfront homes, and plenty of attractions and things to do. The museums in Tacoma are world-class, and its 119 parks provide hundreds of acres of wildlife to explore.
T-Town is the county seat of Pierce County and is best known for its rich American Indian history and various attractions. Tacoma already has a population of 219,383, but there is plenty of room for more! One of the city’s best attributes is its attractive climate; Tacoma weather is enjoyable most of the year. The city does have a rather wet season (winter), but its warm, dry summer makes up for it.
Whether you’re relocating to the heart of Grit City or considering one of the quaint cities near Tacoma WA, you should research the Tacoma Washington climate. We dive deep in the Tacoma weather by month, to ensure you’re well-prepared for you big relocation.
The Tacoma area boasts a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen Csb);
- C eqauls Temperate
- S equals Dry Summer
- B equals Warm Summer
The Tacoma climate is temperate, with dry, warm summers.
Tacoma is located in Puget Sound on the Commencement Bay shores, between the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. It’s known for its temperate maritime climate (influenced by oceanic air patterns). Tacoma’s landscapes include the sounds, rolling hills, and proximity to Mount Rainier, creating diverse regional microclimates.
Climate VS Weather
Weather is a series of daily events and refers to short-term changes in our atmosphere. Climate explains what to expect from the weather over a long period of time in a specific area. If you’re curious if it will rain tomorrow in Tacoma, you will research the weather forecast, but if you’re relocating here, you will search for a term, such as “Tacoma Washington climate.”
Tacoma Seasons | Tacoma Weather by Month
Some areas boast lovely summers and dreadful winters; others have mild winters and oppressive summers. Tacoma experiences all four seasons, but the winters are rather wet. A major plus-side of residing in Tacoma is that the city is at a very low risk of hurricanes or tornados.
Dive deeper into Tacoma’s temperature by month to decide if it’s appealing to you. You may decide that Tacoma, Washington’s climate isn’t fitting after all.
Spring in Tacoma
The flowers are blooming—it must be Spring in the City of Destiny! Tacoma’s spring season starts in April and ends in June, the last few months before the dry season begins. Temperatures rarely fall below 45 °F or spike above 78 °F. The average rainfall in Tacoma, WA, during these months, is 5.1 inches; Tacoma doesn’t typically experience snowfall in the spring.
Spring is the time of year to take advantage of the warm temps, little rainfall, and various events. If you’re seeking things to do in Tacoma in spring, consider attending Seuss-tacular Spring Fling at STAR or the Spring Fling at Eastside Community Center.
Summer in Tacoma
We wouldn’t be exploring Tacoma Washington’s climate if we didn’t discuss summer in Tacoma!
The summer months are ideal for outdoor activities, as you don’t have to worry about lugging an umbrella; Tacoma experiences very little rainfall or precipitation in the summer (June, July, and August), making it the driest season. The average rainfall for the season is 1.3 inches.
The chance of a wet day in Tacoma in the summer is 29% at the beginning of the summer and 15% by the end.
Fall in Tacoma
Get your fall drink order ready because Fall is knocking on Tacoma’s door. Once you set your clocks back and start to see the foliage at your feet, you’ll know pumpkin spice season is in full swing. The Autumn experience is one of the best parts of Tacoma, Washington’s climate.
In the fall, the average temperature in Tacoma, WA, drops drastically (by 27 degrees); most days stay warmer than 30 degrees and cooler than 45. Fall in Tacoma is enjoyable, but October is also the start of Tacoma’s wet season. The season begins with an average daily rainfall of 1.3 inches and ends at 7.7 inches. The most rainfall documented was 8 inches in November.
Tacoma has many fall festivals, including the Washington State Fair and Tacoma Arts Month. Just remember to bring your umbrella and wear your rainboots!
Winter in Tacoma | Tacoma Winter Weather
Tacoma’s winters begin in December and are cold, with significant rainfall and some snow. Temps typically stay above 27°F and below 59°F. Wetness and rain can be expected, but by the end of the winter season (February), the precipitation has decreased from 55% to 45%, and the average monthly rainfall drops from 7.7 inches in December to 5.1 inches in February.
Snowfalls somewhat often, with an average snowfall of 1.8 inches in December. The winter months are great for cuddling up and utilzing Tacoma’s proximity to the Crystal Mountain Resort and Ski Lodge. Other things to do in Tacoma in the winter are Zoolights at Point Defiance Park or A Victorian Country Christmas.
Tacoma Monthly Weather | Average Temperatures in Tacoma WA
Explore the Tacoma weather by month as we explore January through December’s average temperatures and notable weather patterns. Here’s a look at the Tacoma Washington weather year-round! Tacoma, Washington’s climate is one of the most desired attributes of residing here, especially for those interested in summers outside, and don’t mind a wet winter.
Janaury
In January, the average temperature in Tacoma Washington is 41.5°F; temperatures can range from 47 to 36°F. January is Tacoma’s coldest month, with an average daily low of 37°F.
February
Average temperatures increase by 3 degrees in February compared to January. The average temperature is 43.3 °F, rarely dipping below 37 or above 50°F.
March Weather in Tacoma
Tacoma weather in March is enjoyable and warm. It marks the start of spring; temperature increases by 4 degrees, and the average daily temperature is 46.1°F. Temps range from 38 to 55°F.
April
April has an average temperature of 50.3°F, rarely exceeding 72 or dipping below 49°F. This month boasts enjoyable weather and picturesque tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms throughout the city.
The rainy days start to subdue in April, and by May, Tacoma’s dry season is in full swing.
May
May has an average temperature of 56°F; precipitation decreases from 31% to 29% throughout the month. Temperatures range from 46 to 67 degrees.
June
In June, temperatures increase, and precipitation levels drastically drop. The average daily temperature is 61.5°F, but ranges from 51 degrees to 72°F. The precipitation level begins at 29% and ends at 17%.
June also marks the start of Tacoma Ocean Fest, a popular festival celebrating the oceans of the Pacific Northwest.
Tacoma Weather July
July is Tacoma’s driest month, with an average precipitation level of 12%. The average daily temperature is 66.4 °F, but it can range from 55 to 77.
Tacoma Weather for August
Despite being Tacoma’s hottest month, August has a daily average temperature of 66.4 °F. Temperatures typically stay below 88 and above 67.
September
By September, temperatures drop; the average temperature is 61.7 °F, and the daily low is 50 degrees. Temperatures rarely exceed 59 degrees or drop below 44.
Tacoma Washington Weather in October
The average temperature in Tacoma in October is 53 degrees, with temps typically staying above 45 and below 61.
Tacoma hosts various fall festivals in October, including the Tacoma Moon Festival.
November
The weather in Tacoma is lovely, especially in November. While winter is its wettest season, the cool temperatures are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. The average temperature in November is 45.6 degrees, but it can get as low as 40 and as hot as 61 °F.
December
It’s time to get your gloves and winter coats out of storage, but temperatures greatly decrease in December in Tacoma. The average temperature is 40.2 degrees, but it gets as cold as 35. It rarely goes above 46 °F
Annual Tacoma Climate Statistics
A crucial step to understanding Tacoma Washington’s climate is to consider its climate statistics.
- Average number of sunny days: 141 days per year (US 205)
- Tacoma average rainfall (annual): 40.9 inches (US 38 inches)
- Average snowfall: 4.2 inches (28 inches)
- Coldest month: December (average low of 35.2°F)
- Hottest month: August (average high of 77°F)
- Driest month: July (0.7 inches of rainfall)
- Wettest month: November (6.7 inches of rainfall)
- Rainiest month: November (19.3 days of rain)
- Most humid month: December
- Snowiest month: December (1.1 inches of snowfall)
- Sunniest month: July
- Tacoma record cold temperature: -6°F (January 21st, 1943)
- Tacoma record high temperature: 110°F (June 27th, 2021)
What Extreme Weather Does Tacoma Experience?
The Tacoma, Washington, climate does cause four extreme weather patterns to be aware of.
- Flooding: 6.5% of Tacoma properties are at major or higher risk of flooding due to high tide flooding. All residential and commercial buildings have a minor Flood Risk. 8.9% of Tacoma properties are at risk of flooding in the next 30 years.
- Heat waves: Tacoma’s heat waves bring temperatures over 100 degrees. 99.4% of properties have a moderate heat factor, 15.1% have a minor heat factor, and 0% have a minimal, major, severe, or extreme Heat Factor.
- Wildfire smoke: Smoke from wildfires in the south, east, or north could blow into Tacoma.
- Wildfire: 1.8% of Tacoma’s property is at risk of being affected by a wildfire in the next 30 years, putting it at moderate Wildfire Risk.
- Air Quality: Tacoma’s air quality is at severe risk, but it remains better than 50% of Washington’s cities. Factors like wildfires, industrial facilities, transportation, and climate change affect the city’s air quality.
Tacoma Washington Climate Questions & Answers
Learn more about the Tacoma weather by month as we answer these commonly asked questions.
Does Tacoma Have a Wind Risk?
According to FirstStreet, Tacoma has a minimal wind risk.
Does It Snow in Tacoma Washington?
Yes, it does snow in Tacoma. The average snowfall in Tacoma, WA, is 4 inches.
Does Tacoma Get a Lot of Snow?
No, Tacoma only experiences an average annual snowfall of 4 inches; the US average is 38 inches.
What Type of Climate Does Tacoma Have?
Tacoma has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, with warm and dry summers and wet winters.
Is Tacoma Sunniest Than Seattle?
Tacoma experiences an average of 141 sunny days yearly, whereas Seattle experiences 152. The average US city experiences 205.
Does It Rain a Lot in Tacoma, Washington?
The average annual rainfall in Tacoma, WA, 39 inches, 1 inch more than the US average. Tacoma typically experiences 153.5 rainy days per year.
Does Tacoma Have Better Weather Than Seattle?
When you compare Tacoma to Seattle, you will see that Emerald City can be slightly sunnier, but their climates are very similar. Seattle is considered one of the rainiest cities in the US, which some consider a downside, while others prefer it.
How Hot Does Tacoma Get in the Summer?
The average daily high in the summer in Tacoma is 75°F; it’s rarely cooler than 59°F or warmer than 88°F.
What Is the Coldest Month in Tacoma?
January is the coldest month in Tacoma.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Tacoma?
The best time to visit Tacoma is really a personal preference. According to Weather Spark’s tourist score, the best time to visit Tacoma is in the summer, between early July and late August, to avoid the rainy season and have ample outdoor opportunities. If you don’t mind the rain and want to avoid crowds, the fall might be more your cup of tea!
Tacoma Washington Climate With All Ready Ready Moving
Now that you know what to expect from Tacoma Washington’s climate, you’ve likely decided you can live here, indeed! The weather in Tacoma is enjoyable most of the year, and if you like to rain, you’ll find all its seasons lovely.
When you’re ready to experience the city’s weather for yourself, contact one of the trusted moving companies in Tacoma at (360) 507-2447. We will provide you with a free estimate and a stress-free transition.
