Dakota County Climate

Dakota County, Minnesota

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45.3°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

45.3°F

Annual Precip

33.3"

Annual Snowfall

41.0"

Extreme Heat Days

7.766666666666666

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
1.0"
0.9"
1.7"
3.0"
4.2"
4.9"
4.4"
4.4"
3.3"
2.7"
1.7"
1.1"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring31°58°8.9"Summer68°72°13.6"Fall34°62°7.7"Winter14°21°3.0"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 14% of US counties
Wetter than 31% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 91% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Dakota County Weather

A Continental Mix of Extremes

Dakota County’s 45.3°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median but reflects a typical humid continental zone. It receives 33.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than many of its western neighbors.

Warmer and Wetter than Average

The county stays warmer than the Minnesota average of 42.8°F, fueled by its southeastern location. It also sees 3.3 inches more precipitation than the state norm, marking it as a wetter regional hub.

Milder than the Northern Counties

Dakota is nearly four degrees warmer annually than Crow Wing County to the north. While it is slightly cooler than Cottonwood, it maintains a similar summer profile with an average July temp of 72.2°F.

Vibrant Summers and Snow-Covered Winters

Summers are warm with eight days of extreme heat and a July average of 72.2°F. Winter brings 41.0 inches of snow, providing a consistent white blanket for the December through February period.

Ready for Rain and Snow

With 33.3 inches of annual precipitation, residents should ensure proper home drainage and waterproofing. Standard Minnesota winter gear is essential for the 14.4°F January average.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Dakota County?
The average annual temperature in Dakota County, MN is 45.3°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Dakota County get?
Dakota County receives an average of 33.3 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 Dakota County?
Yes, Dakota County receives an average of 41.0 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Dakota County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Dakota County is 70.0°F. The county experiences an average of 7.766666666666666 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Dakota County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Dakota County is 17.9°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 14.4°F.

Track your own weather in Dakota County

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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

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