Wake County Climate

Wake County, North Carolina

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec60.2°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

60.2°F

Annual Precip

48.2"

Annual Snowfall

4.5"

Extreme Heat Days

41.6

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.6"
2.9"
4.1"
3.7"
3.7"
4.6"
4.9"
4.8"
5.3"
3.6"
3.4"
3.6"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring51°68°11.4"Summer75°79°14.3"Fall51°72°12.4"Winter41°44°10.1"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 69% of US counties
Wetter than 67% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 25% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Wake County Weather

Above Average Warmth in the Triangle

Wake County's average annual temperature of 60.2°F sits well above the national median. This reflects a warm-temperate climate that experiences long periods of summer heat and relatively brief winters.

Warmer Than the North Carolina Average

Wake County is slightly warmer than the 59.3°F state average, while its 48.2 inches of rainfall is just below the state average of 51.5 inches. This creates a slightly drier and warmer environment than the statewide norm.

Consistent Warmth Across the Central Region

Wake's 42 extreme heat days are typical for the central Piedmont, keeping it in line with surrounding urban centers. Its July average of 79.3°F is nearly identical to its southern and eastern neighbors.

Hot Summers and Changeable Winters

The county averages 77.4°F in the summer, with 42 days hitting the 90°F mark. Winter brings an average of 42.9°F and 4.5 inches of snow, providing more winter variety than the coastal counties.

Manage Heat and Minor Snow Events

With 42 days of extreme heat, energy-efficient cooling is a major household consideration. Residents should also keep a snow shovel handy for the 4.5 inches of annual snow that can occasionally disrupt local travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Wake County?
The average annual temperature in Wake County, NC is 60.2°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Wake County get?
Wake County receives an average of 48.2 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 Wake County?
Yes, Wake County receives an average of 4.5 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Wake County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Wake County is 77.4°F. The county experiences an average of 41.6 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Wake County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Wake County is 42.9°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 41.0°F.

Track your own weather in Wake 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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