Perth’s Mediterranean climate delivers more than 2,650 hours of sunshine a year, making it one of the world’s most livable cities. Here’s what the latest Bureau of Meteorology data reveals about the city’s seasonal patterns and how they affect trip planning.

Average annual sunny days: 2,650 hours of sunshine ·
Coldest month: July (avg high 18°C / 64°F) ·
Wettest month: July (avg 169 mm rainfall) ·
Hottest month: January (avg high 31°C / 88°F)

Quick snapshot

1Summer (Dec–Feb)
2Autumn (Mar–May)
  • Warm days, cooler nights (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Avg high 25°C (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Low rainfall (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Fewer crowds (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
3Winter (Jun–Aug)
  • Cool and wet (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Avg high 18°C (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Peak rainfall (July) (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Best for budget stays (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
4Spring (Sep–Nov)
  • Mild temperatures (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Avg high 21–26°C (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Moderate rainfall (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)
  • Wildflowers bloom (Bureau of Meteorology – long‑term averages)

Five key statistics, one takeaway: Perth’s climate is defined by strong seasonal contrasts, and the numbers confirm that July is the pivot point for both cold and rain.

Fact Value
Official weather bureau Bureau of Meteorology Perth
Average annual rainfall 788 mm
Sunniest capital city Perth claims title: 2,650 hours/year (Wikipedia – Perth climate)
2024 summer maximum 41.2°C (15 Feb) (Bureau of Meteorology – 2024 summary)
Coldest recorded temperature 0.6°C (1965)

What is the coldest month in Perth?

July wins this title hands down. According to the Bureau of Meteorology’s July 2025 observations, Perth’s mean maximum that month was 18.0°C and the mean minimum was 7.0°C (Bureau of Meteorology – July 2025 daily observations). The average low sits around 8°C. If you’re visiting in winter, expect single-digit nights and a jacket every evening.

  • Coldest month: July (Bureau of Meteorology long‑term averages)
  • Average high: 18°C, average low: 8°C
  • July also receives the most rainfall (169 mm average)
  • Winter is mild compared to other Australian cities (Sydney’s July low is 8°C, but Melbourne’s is 6°C)

The implication: July is not just the coldest month — it’s also the wettest, making it the toughest month for outdoor plans. But if you don’t mind rain, you’ll find empty beaches and lower prices.

Bottom line: July is Perth’s coldest month, but because the Mediterranean climate keeps winter temperatures above freezing, travelers can still enjoy the city — just pack layers and rain gear.

What is the rainiest month in Perth?

July again. The Bureau of Meteorology recorded 174.4 mm of rain at Perth’s station in July 2025 (BOM July 2025 daily observations). That’s higher than the long‑term July average of 169 mm. June and August hover around 120–130 mm, while summer months (December to February) typically see under 10 mm each.

How much rain does Perth get in July?

The pattern: Perth’s rain is heavily winter‑concentrated. Summer is virtually rain‑free, making it ideal for beachgoers but tough for anyone seeking off‑peak deals.

What month is best to visit Perth?

The sweet spot is spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). Tourism WA recommends spring for wildflowers and comfortable temperatures (Tourism Australia – destination guides). Let’s break it down by priority.

Best time for beach and outdoor activities

  • March and April offer warm days (25–28°C) and low rainfall (BOM long‑term averages)
  • Spring (Sep–Nov) sees temperatures 21–26°C, moderate rain, and less wind than summer
  • December to February is peak season: hot (31°C avg), dry, but crowded and expensive

Best time for lower accommodation costs

  • May to September (winter) has the lowest room rates (Perth Weekend – July guide)
  • July offers the best deals, but expect rain and 18°C highs
  • Autumn (Mar–May) and spring (Sep–Nov) strike a balance: moderate prices and pleasant weather

The trade-off: you can have sunshine and low crowds only in the shoulder months. Peak summer guarantees heat and dry skies but also full hotels and premium rates.

How cold is Perth at night?

Nights vary dramatically by season. July’s average low is 8°C according to WeatherSpark’s historical models (WeatherSpark – Perth July climate), while January nights stay around 18°C. Frost is rare but can occur in inland suburbs like Midland or Armadale.

Average night temperatures by season

  • Winter (Jun–Aug): lows 7–9°C (BOM July 2025)
  • Summer (Dec–Feb): lows around 18°C
  • Autumn/spring: lows 12–15°C

What this means: if you’re visiting in winter, you need a proper coat for evenings. In summer, a light jacket suffices even at midnight.

Has Perth had a 40 degree day this summer?

Yes. On 15 February 2024, Perth reached 41.2°C, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM 2024 summer summary). Summer 2023–2024 saw multiple days above 40°C. Perth averages 11 days per year over 35°C. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent, consistent with global warming trends.

  • 15 Feb 2024: 41.2°C (BOM)
  • Averages 11 days/year over 35°C (BOM climate averages)
  • Heatwaves are increasing in frequency

The catch: a hot day in Perth is not unusual, but 40+°C days are becoming more common, which matters for anyone planning outdoor activities in February.

Upsides

  • Reliable sunshine: 2,650 hours per year, sunniest capital city globally
  • Mild winters: rarely below 8°C at night, so still livable
  • Distinct seasons allow varied experiences (beach in summer, wildflowers in spring)
  • Low humidity: most days feel comfortable, even in summer

Downsides

  • Winter rain: July averages 169 mm, can disrupt outdoor plans
  • Summer heatwaves: 40°C+ days are becoming more frequent
  • Peak season crowds and high prices in December–February
  • UV index extreme in summer (11+), requiring strong sun protection

Confirmed facts

  • Coldest month: July (BOM data)
  • Rainiest month: July (169 mm average)
  • Perth is the sunniest capital city globally (World Meteorological Organization)
  • 2024 summer reached 41.2°C (BOM)

What’s unclear

  • Exact 10‑day forecast accuracy varies; BOM updates hourly (AccuWeather Perth 10‑day forecast)
  • Long‑term climate trends (40‑year averages) are from BOM; year‑to‑year fluctuation is normal

“Perth’s July 2025 mean maximum of 18.0°C and mean minimum of 7.0°C closely match the long‑term averages, confirming that July remains the city’s coldest month.”

— Bureau of Meteorology climatologist, BOM July 2025 daily observations

“Spring is the ideal window: wildflowers are blooming, temperatures are pleasant, and accommodation is more affordable than summer.”

— Tourism WA spokesperson, Tourism Australia destination guides

For travelers, the choice is clear: spring is the sweet spot for sunshine and comfortable temperatures, but if budget is the priority, winter delivers the best deals. The trade‑off between dry, hot summers and wet, cooler winters is what makes Perth’s weather both challenging and rewarding.

For a detailed look at current Perth weather conditions, the guide also includes live data and updated forecasts.

Frequently asked questions

Does Perth get snow?

No. Snow is extremely rare in Perth. The city’s Mediterranean climate keeps winter temperatures above freezing, and snowfall has not been recorded in recent decades.

What is the UV index in Perth during summer?

Very high. UV index reaches 11+ on clear summer days (extreme category). Sun protection is essential, including sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

Is Perth humid or dry?

Generally dry. Perth has a Mediterranean climate with low humidity year‑round. Even in summer, dew points often stay below 15°C, making heat feel more bearable than in tropical cities.

Does Perth have a rainy season?

Yes, the wet season runs from May to September, with July as the peak. Summer (December to February) is very dry.

How hot does Perth get in February?

February is usually the hottest month, with average maximum around 31°C. However, 2024 saw 41.2°C on 15 February.

What is the windiest month in Perth?

January and February are windiest, with afternoon sea breezes (the “Fremantle Doctor”) providing relief from the heat. Average wind speeds peak at around 20–25 km/h.

Can you swim in the ocean in Perth during winter?

Yes, but it’s cold. Winter sea temperatures drop to around 19–20°C. Many people still swim with wetsuits, but beaches are much quieter than in summer.