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Maricopa County Climate

Maricopa County, Arizona

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec71.8°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

71.8°F

Annual Precip

9.4"

Annual Snowfall

0.0"

Extreme Heat Days

167

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.2"
1.3"
1.1"
0.3"
0.2"
0.1"
1.0"
1.2"
0.7"
0.7"
0.7"
1.0"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

9b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

8,073

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 01/27
First fall frost (32°F): 12/15

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring62°77°1.6"Summer87°92°2.2"Fall61°85°2.1"Winter53°57°3.5"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 98% of US counties
Wetter than 1% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 25% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Maricopa County

Climate Verdict

Maricopa County has a warm, averaging 71.8°F year-round, arid conditions receiving just 9.4 inches of precipitation annually, extreme heat exposure with 167.22000000000003 days per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 0.0 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 53.9°F. summers are scorching with July averaging 91.7°F. The 38°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change. December is typically the coldest month and July the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Summer outdoor activities should be planned for early morning or evening to avoid extreme heat.

Regional Context

Maricopa County is 8.3°F warmer than the Arizona statewide average of 63.5°F, it is somewhat drier than average for Arizona, the county experiences 53.80500840825843 more extreme heat days than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Maricopa County Weather

America's Desert Metropolis Climate

Maricopa's 71.8°F annual average is among the highest in the United States. This desert powerhouse receives only 9.4 inches of rain, well below the national average.

Well Above the Arizona Average

Maricopa is significantly warmer than the state average of 63.5°F. It serves as the urban heat center of Arizona, characterized by 167 extreme heat days annually.

Hotter and Drier Than Gila

While slightly cooler than La Paz, Maricopa is far hotter and drier than its eastern neighbor Gila. It records zero snowfall, whereas Gila sees over 5 inches.

Blistering July and Snowless Winters

July is blistering with an average temperature of 91.7°F. Winters provide a mild escape, with average temperatures of 54.4°F and absolutely no recorded snow.

Manage the Urban Heat Island

High-performance air conditioning is a non-negotiable requirement for the 167 days of extreme heat. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening during the long summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Maricopa County?
The average annual temperature in Maricopa County, AZ is 71.8°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Maricopa County get?
Maricopa County receives an average of 9.4 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Maricopa County?
Yes, Maricopa County receives an average of 0.0 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Maricopa County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Maricopa County is 89.7°F. The county experiences an average of 167 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Maricopa County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Maricopa County is 54.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 53.9°F.

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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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