Climate
Seasons
Portland has four separate seasons. When packing for your move to Portland, pack clothing only for the time of year you will be arriving. You can purchase additional clothing after you arrive and the season changes.
Summer (June-September): Warm and dry with average temperatures in the 80s to 90s°F (25 – 35°C). This season is sunny, with very little rain. Some days get very hot, and a bit humid, so usually a light sweater is more than sufficient. Very few apartments and homes have air conditioning. Because Portland is so far north, the hottest time of day will be between 3-5pm and it can take a very long time for homes to cool down. The sun usually stays out until 9pm so you can enjoy the outdoors. It might still rain occasionally, but it will be warm and brief.
Locals say:
- Head to nearby natural water sites such as rivers, lakes, or the Pacific coast to cool off. Portlanders love to swim, paddleboard, and float. Be cautious of ocean tides and currents.
- Carry water and sunscreen.
- You may want to purchase a fan or portable air conditioning unit for July and August months.
- Close blinds or curtains on very hot days.
Fall (September to November): September averaging highs around 76°F (24°C) dropping to the mid-60s°F (18°C) by October, and low 50s°F (12°C) in November. Rain is common and comes in gentle, steady patterns, creating the lush green landscapes that define the Pacific Northwest aesthetic. The colors of the leaves on the trees will change slowly and the transition is beautiful. It will grow more cloudy and daylight hours will decrease.
Locals say:
- Wear layers to be ready for variable temperatures.
- This is an ideal time to enjoy hiking without large crowds.
- Be sure to visit a pumpkin patch or local farm.
- A good rain jacket with a hood is more commonly used than an umbrella.
Winter (December-March): Cold and wet, with average temperatures in the 40s°F (around 8°C). Rain is common. The skies are usually overcast and grey, with very little sun. All apartments and homes in Portland should have heat, but to keep electricity costs down you may want to have cozy and warm clothing. For the few times it snows or becomes very icy, you will be glad to have hats and gloves outside. Most streets will be cleared by snowplows and it is safe to take public transit, however many people may choose to remain home. Schools and businesses may close for snow days. If your home country is in a mostly warm climate, you likely do not already have something warm and waterproof enough. The sun sets very early, around 4pm. Portlanders will retreat indoors to coffee shops, breweries, climbing gyms and art spaces.
Locals say:
- Waterproof or water resistant coats and boots can be more convenient to stay dry than umbrellas because the rain is constant but light, and it can be windy.
- Wear bright clothing so you are visible to drivers in the dark.
- Proper winter or recreational clothing may be a financial investment. Clothing brands such as Columbia, North Face, and Patagonia are reliable but expensive. Portland has many thrift and consignment stores for used clothing at a lower price.
- Dress in layers to stay warm (long sleeve shirts under sweaters, topped with a jacket).
- Many locals take Vitamin D supplements and use sun lamps in the darker months because the lack of sunshine may affect your mood.
- If you enjoy winter sports, head just a couple hours east towards Mount Hood for skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, inner tubing, and more!
Spring (March-June): Mild and temperate. There is a combination of rain and sun, with many rainbows and beautiful sunrises and sunsets. It is a transitional season with warming temperatures in the low 40s to high 60s°F (around 4–20°C), more sunshine, but still frequent, light rain. The weather can change quickly so you still want to wear layers and rain gear. Portland will be blooming with flowers and greenery. The hours of sunlight will increase.
Locals say:
- Be sure to visit the rose gardens throughout the city. Portland is the City of Roses afterall!
- Even if you have never had seasonal allergies before, you might start having symptoms here. Allergy medication is commonly used by locals.
- Check the weather forecast every day because it can be unpredictable..
- The cherry blossoms on the waterfront and in the Portland Japanese Garden are popular to visit.