Pierce County Climate

Pierce County, Washington

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48.3°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

48.3°F

Annual Precip

61.1"

Annual Snowfall

38.3"

Extreme Heat Days

2.466666666666667

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
8.7"
6.3"
6.5"
4.7"
3.2"
2.4"
0.9"
1.1"
2.4"
6.1"
9.6"
9.1"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring41°52°14.5"Summer57°63°4.5"Fall41°58°18.1"Winter37°38°24.1"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 25% of US counties
Wetter than 91% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 2% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Pierce County Weather

A Temperate Climate Beneath the Peak

Pierce County averages 48.3°F annually, trailing the national median temperature. Its annual precipitation of 61.1 inches reflects the influence of Mt. Rainier and the Puget Sound, creating a moist, temperate environment.

Colder than Average for Western Washington

The county's 48.3°F annual average is lower than the Washington state average of 49.9°F, largely due to high-elevation terrain. Its 61.1 inches of rain significantly exceeds the state average of 38.5 inches.

Wetter and Snowier than Nearby Snohomish

Pierce County sees 38.3 inches of annual snow, vastly outstripping Snohomish County’s 3.6 inches. This disparity is driven by the county's varied topography, which catches significantly more moisture than its northern neighbors.

Consistent Rains and Rare Heat

Summers are very mild with a July average of 62.3°F and only 2 days of extreme heat over 90°F. However, winters bring significant moisture and an average of 38.3 inches of snow, particularly in the foothills.

Gear Up for Variable Winter Weather

With only 2 days of extreme heat, air conditioning is often optional, but high-quality rain shells are a daily necessity. Homeowners should prepare for potential snow events and ensure drainage systems can handle over 60 inches of annual precipitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Pierce County?
The average annual temperature in Pierce County, WA is 48.3°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Pierce County get?
Pierce County receives an average of 61.1 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 Pierce County?
Yes, Pierce County receives an average of 38.3 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Pierce County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Pierce County is 60.5°F. The county experiences an average of 2.466666666666667 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Pierce County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Pierce County is 37.5°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 37.5°F.

Track your own weather in Pierce County

Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.

Shop Weather Stations →

Sponsored

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.

Explore more data for Pierce County

TaxCost of LivingComing SoonCrime RateIncomeComing SoonHealthSchoolsRiskWaterCounty Score