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Charleston County Climate

Charleston County, South Carolina

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec66.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

66.1°F

Annual Precip

51.2"

Annual Snowfall

0.3"

Extreme Heat Days

49

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
3.3"
3.0"
3.5"
3.3"
3.1"
5.3"
6.3"
7.1"
5.8"
4.2"
2.7"
3.5"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

9a

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

6,218

Excellent for heat-loving crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 03/07
First fall frost (32°F): 12/01

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring58°73°9.9"Summer79°82°18.7"Fall58°77°12.6"Winter49°52°9.9"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 90% of US counties
Wetter than 79% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 10% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Charleston County

Climate Verdict

Charleston County has a warm, averaging 66.1°F year-round, moderately wet with 51.2 inches of annual precipitation, occasional hot days — 48.949999999999996 per year above 90°F, light snow averaging 0.3 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 49.1°F. summers are hot, with July averaging 81.9°F. The 33°F seasonal variation provides noticeable but manageable change.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Charleston County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Charleston County is 3.2°F warmer than the South Carolina statewide average of 62.8°F, it is somewhat wetter than average for South Carolina.

Climate Profile

About Charleston County Weather

A Coastal Hub Warmer Than Most

Charleston County maintains a warm annual average temperature of 66.1°F, far exceeding the national median. This subtropical climate remains consistently mild compared to the broader United States. The county experiences a humid environment driven by its coastal location.

Well Above the South Carolina Average

The county's average temperature sits more than three degrees higher than the South Carolina state average of 62.8°F. This makes Charleston one of the warmest regions in the state. Its coastal proximity prevents the deeper temperature drops seen in the Upstate.

Warmer and Wetter Than Colleton

Charleston averages 66.1°F, outpacing neighboring Colleton County's 64.8°F. Rainfall here reaches 51.2 inches annually, exceeding the state average of 48.9 inches. Residents enjoy slightly more tropical conditions than their inland peers.

Endless Summers and Negligible Snow

Summer temperatures peak at an average of 81.9°F in July, while extreme heat days occur 49 times per year. Winter is mild with a 50.9°F average and a rare 0.3 inches of annual snowfall. The transition between seasons is often subtle and brief.

Prioritize Humidity Control and Light Gear

High annual precipitation of 51.2 inches requires robust drainage and moisture control for homes. HVAC systems should be optimized for cooling rather than heating to handle the 49 extreme heat days. Lightweight, breathable clothing is the standard for most of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Charleston County?
The average annual temperature in Charleston County, SC is 66.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Charleston County get?
Charleston County receives an average of 51.2 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 Charleston County?
Yes, Charleston County receives an average of 0.3 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Charleston County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Charleston County is 80.6°F. The county experiences an average of 49 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Charleston County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Charleston County is 50.9°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 49.1°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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