Pierce County Climate
Pierce County, Washington
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
48.3°F
Annual Precip
61.1"
Annual Snowfall
38.3"
Extreme Heat Days
2
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
8b
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
1,560
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: Pierce County
Climate Verdict
Pierce County has a cool, averaging 48.3°F annually, very wet conditions receiving 61.1 inches of precipitation annually, rare extreme heat with only 2.466666666666667 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 38.3 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are cold, with January averaging 37.5°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 62.3°F. The climate is remarkably stable year-round, with only a 25°F difference between January and July. December is typically the coldest month and August the warmest.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Pierce County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
Pierce County closely matches the Washington statewide average temperature of 49.9°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 22.6 inches more precipitation than the state average, the county experiences 15.526100386100383 fewer extreme heat days than the state average.
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?
How much rain does Pierce County get?
Does it snow in Pierce County?
How hot does Pierce County get in summer?
How cold are winters in Pierce County?
Track your own weather in Pierce County
Ambient Weather personal weather stations give you hyperlocal climate data.
Sponsored
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.