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What's weather like in Seattle, Washington?

23 local experts
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Does Seattle get rain? Snow? Hail? What's summer weather like? Here's what 23 local experts had to say about weather and precipitation in Seattle, Washington.

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If you’re moving to Seattle, be sure to bring a quality raincoat, durable pair of waterproof boots, and a love of cloudy skies and rain. However, bear in mind that there is no shortage of sunshine in the summer months, so don’t forget the sunscreen and sunglasses. The people here are friendly and very helpful, and the transportation system can take you anywhere you want to go. Be sure to plan your stay, so you don’t miss a thing. I highly recommend the Museum of Pop Culture, or MOPOP, as we like to call it. And don’t forget about Pike Place, Gasworks Park, and the Woodland Park Zoo! Enjoy your stay in the Emerald City.

Barbara, says: 2023

We have the most beautiful mountain range across our state. We are on the Pacific Ocean. It doesn’t rain as much as you’ve been lead to believe but it does stay cloudy more in winter. We have something for everyone here. Restaurants to hiking trails to hot air balloon races. Microsoft, Amazon and Boeing are our biggest employment resources. The traffic is hell but the people are diverse. It’s one of the most beautiful places to see from an airplane on a sunny day.

if you’re moving to Seattle, bring your rain coat, umbrella and galoshes because, like everybody says, it rains in Seattle… a lot. And for some Seattleites, they even have moss growing between their toes. But the area also has access nearby to incredibly lush forests, mountains, lakes and waterways, so outdoor adventures are near. So, when the sun comes out, oh my, Seattle and the surrounding scenery is out of this world beautiful!

Seattle is a very expensive city when you consider things like the cost of housing and the cost of food. But, weighing this against the natural beauty that surrounds you almost makes it worth the cost! People say it rains here all the time, but that is not true. There is often a rain shower, but it is not everyday, and not during all four seasons. I prefer this weather to the east coast heat and humidity – a little rain never killed anyone.

Seattle has amazing summer weather that attracts visitors from all over the world. It has amazing coffee and of course, beautiful greenery and scenery. People often move to Seattle during the Fall after their summer visits, but then reality hits. Seattle is one of the rainiest cities in the United States; on average, it rains about 19 days a month. However, even after living in Los Angeles for three years and D.C. for another three years, I still chose to come home to Seattle for its charm and warm hospitality.

Nicole, says: 2020

Living in Seattle during the winters is lovely because of the cold temperatures and soft snow. Oftentimes the snow does not stick, so it is like being inside a snow globe. The few times the snow does stick, it piles just high enough for snowmen and sledding. You can often find children and adults alike sliding down a nice snowy hill.

Crockett, says: 2020

Seattle is be known for its rainy days. Between October and November, it can rain up to 30 days straight. There are a lot of great coffee shops that are locally owned. If you are a sports fan, you can catch a Seattle Seahawks football game. The Space Needle is also a great tourist spot.

Veronica, says: 2020

Someone moving to Seattle should be prepared for windy and rainy weather, plenty of weekend hikes to nearby State and National Parks and one of the country’s best public transportation systems. Seattle has an abundance of lakes, water bodies, trails and is one of the most dog-friendly US cities. There are coffee shops all over the city, and one will almost always have a Starbucks location within walking distance.

Shelley, says: 2020

The movies and shows that show it raining all the time in Seattle are not correct. We have very beautiful days with sunny skies. Also, the Space Needle cannot be seen from everywhere in the city, however the famous Mt. Rainier can be seen from all around the area!

Lishelle, says: 2020

If you’re moving to Seattle, you should expect… exactly what you’re expecting; at least in terms of weather.it does rain as often as anecdote would suggest. The people and the culture, however, more than make up for whatever gloomy feelings you may have about damp and overcast weather. Seattle is full of artists, dreamers, and bold-spirited individuals. This manifests in breathtaking architecture, inspiring art fairs, and your next favorite independent café.

Angeline, says: 2020

Though I have only lived in Seattle for a short while, I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any of my friends; in fact, I have already done so on several occasions, unprovoked. The scenery here is vastly more impressive than that in my native Florida, and summer weather far more enjoyable. However, those moving to Seattle should know Seattle’s reputation as a rainy city is certainly not unfounded. In winter, when the skies turn gloomy, perhaps my disposition toward Seattle will become slightly less positive.

Andraine, says: 2020

Seattle is a very busy city, similar to Los Angeles but with obvious differences. There are many lakes and several famous landmarks to be visited. The weather is quite bipolar.

Mackenzie, says: 2020

Seattle, Washington, experiences all four seasons and has plenty of festivities to go along with each weather change. Contrary to popular belief Seattle rains a lot less than people think. It gets its fair share of rain but typically has short showers with occasional down pours. The driest time of year is the summer. Temperatures are mild with only a few hot days a year.

Despite its reputation for rain, Seattle has a wealth of activities that are sure to entertain. From foodies to nature-lovers, music fans and fitness junkies, newcomers will find no shortage of friends and communities to welcome them upon arrival.

Angela, says: 2020

Seattle is a beautiful city, from its constant and somewhat depressing weather to its evergreen scenery. The city itself has a lot to offer and it holds a warm and welcoming vibe to anybody who enters. It has a lot to offer as far as business and tech and science.

Melissa, says: 2020

Seattle is known for its rain and cloudy skies, but it’s actually an ideal place for about four months of the year. Between June and September, the temperature stays around 75 degrees, and Seattle residents regularly flock to parks and beaches to enjoy the pleasant weather. I’ve noticed that Seattleites never let a sunny day go unappreciated. You could say that we live for summer!

Mikaela, says: 2020

You must be prepared to face what many transplants call “The Seattle Freeze.” Many who were born in Seattle and the surrounding areas, are not the biggest fans of small talk. To many, this comes off as cold and standoffish. Though, when we do open up, many of us can be quite friendly!

Meagan, says: 2020

Although Seattle is known for its gray skies and rainy weather, outdoor recreation opportunities abound. The Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and the Pacific Ocean are within arm’s reach of those who seek the water. Similarly, the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Range, and Mount Rainier are equally accessible to hikers, climbers, and camping enthusiasts. Finally, Washington Wine Country is only a few hours away for those who appreciate the art of vinification.

Aolani, says: 2020

Someone moving to Seattle should know it does rain a lot; perhaps not as much as people say, but certainly a great deal. They should also know that it is a beautiful city, filled with parks, beaches and forests. And finally it is superb coffee!

Michael, says: 2020

It’s beautiful. Seriously, it really is. It’s clean (due to ocean air and rain). It’s lush. You’re surrounded by mountains (including volcanoes that you can see form the city). The sunsets are gorgeous. It’s very hilly, so you have good viewpoints from all over the city.

Great food (There is a serious ‘foodie’ scene here, though not a ton of variety. Most of our food is fancy comfort food or locally sourced fish/veggies. We do have a little Asian food scene, but, I’ve been told my multiple sources that it’s not the best Asian food. Good news though, you’re 2. five hours from Vancouver BC! They know how to do sushi/pho/ramen very well.)

Lots of outdoor activities and close to the city (you can work up a sweat hiking around Discovery Park 10 min from Downtown, kayak in the city, swim in Lake Washington 10 min outside the downtown core (clean water too!), bike the Lake Washington loop (100 miles or so) or the Burke Gilman trail (40 miles from Fremont to wineries RT) etc) or outside the city (too many options to list! Ski, backpack, hike, hang-glide, you name it basically).

Seattle is notoriously known for being cold and rainy, however there isn’t a more picturesque place in summer and fall. With beautiful snow-covered mountains and lush green trees, the city is just a short distance from plenty of outdoor recreation. Pike Place Market is an iconic place to visit and allows locals to play tourist in their own city.

Seattle is a very wet city so be ready for rain. Traffic in the city can be somewhat congested and the amount of hills make an automatic transmission very useful. Overall the people are rather pleasant and there is a good mix of local and chain businesses for food, leisure, or almost anything you can think of.

Kelcey, says: 2020

Seattle is a great city, and has many nice things. There are many tasty restaurants, diners, and pubs, and people are friendly. It will occasionally get very foggy without any warning, however, and does rain a lot. You should keep an umbrella in your car. Seattle is a great city and I fully recommend you moving there.

Vanessa, says: 2020
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