Nashville's weather and temperature range are fairly moderate compared to many other cities in the United States, and while Tennessee's capital has recorded temperature extremes of minus 17 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 27 and 42 degrees Celsius), that is not the norm. Temperatures in Nashville typically range from an average low of 29 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 3 degrees Celsius) in January to an average high of 90 F (27 C) in July.
The best seasons to visit Nashville are spring, summer, and fall, especially between the months of April and October, when the Music City comes to life with a whole slew of outdoor events and attractions.
However, there are plenty of events in Nashville all year long, so don't shy away from a winter visit just because of the cold.
Fast Climate Facts
- Hottest Month: July (average 80 degrees Fahrenheit/27 degrees Celsius)
- Coldest Month: January (39 degrees Fahrenheit/4 degrees Celsius)
- Wettest Month: May (5.0 inches)
Spring in Nashville
Spring is pleasant in Nashville, with daily highs typically above 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) and lows down to 50 F (10 C). The highest monthly rainfall occurs normally in May, which normally sees around five inches. Also be aware thatthe Middle Tennessee area, including Nashville, has around a dozen or sotornado watchesissued annually—mostly in March, April, and May—and at least one tornado is either spotted or touches down in Middle Tennessee every year.
What to pack: Bring your rain gear. While spring in Nashville isn't cold overall, it can be chilly at night, requiring a sweater or a light jacket. It's also regularly quite wet so an umbrella, rain jacket, and waterproof shoes are worth packing too.
Average Temperatures by Month
March: 62 F (17 C)/40 F (4 C)
April: 72 F (22 C)/48 F (9 C)
May: 80 F (27 C)/58 F (14 C)
Summer in Nashville
Summer is the most intense season in Nashville, with high temperatures and humidity. Temperatures routinely climb above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), but it can feel much warmer thanks to the oppressive humidity. Lows are usually approaching 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). These months can be quite rainy, and thunderstorms are common.
What to pack: The summer is the most humid in Nashville, so if you're visiting in June, July, or August, make sure to bring light, breathable clothes, especially if you plan to do any outdoor activities—swimming is a great way to cool down, and there are plenty of local pools and nearby lakes and rivers to enjoy.
Average Temperatures by Month
June: 87 F (31 C)/66 F (19 C)
July: 90 F (32 C)/70 F (21 C)
August: 90 F (32 C)/69 F (21 C)
Fall in Nashville
Temperatures drop off quickly during the autumn months. By September, highs average around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) in September and are down to 60 F (16 C) or lower in November. October is among the best months to visit: Humidity and temperatures are low, and fall's changing leaves are a beautiful sight to see. Fall foliage continues into November, as the leaves fully change from green to bright yellows, reds, and oranges, lining the city's streets with fall colors as colder weather sets in. Of course, Thanksgiving events and other fall celebrations are also abundant in Music City this month.
What to pack: Late fall can get a bit crisp, so it's best to bring layers, especially for outdoor adventures in late September and throughout October and November. October is the driest month, so you don't need to worry about rain spoiling your travels.
Average Temperatures by Month
September: 83 F (28 C)/62 F (16 C)
October: 72 F (22 C)/49 F (9 C)
November: 61 F (16 C)/39 F (4 C)
Winter in Nashville
Nashville winters are relatively mild, but they can be wet which can make temperatures feel cold. On average, temperatures range from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 1 to 10 degrees Celsius), but there are occasional snaps of even colder weather due to blasts of arctic Canadian air. Snow does happen, but not more than two or three times per year and even then, just an inch or two.
What to pack: It can get chilly and you'll want to pack for that with warm, layered clothing. But also bring at least one warmer-weather outfit for the occasional day of rebound warmth.
Average Temperatures by Month
December: 51 F (9 C)/32 F (0 C)
January: 48 F (8 C)/29 F (minus 2 C)
February: 52 F (11 C)/32 F (minus 1 C)
Average Monthly Temperature, Rainfall, and Daylight Hours | |||
---|---|---|---|
Month | Avg. Temp. | Rainfall | Daylight Hours |
January | 39 F | 4.0 inches | 10 hours |
February | 42 F | 3.7 inches | 11 hours |
March | 51 F | 4.9 inches | 12 hours |
April | 60 F | 3.9 inches | 13 hours |
May | 69 F | 5.1 inches | 14 hours |
June | 77 F | 4.1 inches | 14 hours |
July | 80 F | 3.8 inches | 14 hours |
August | 79 F | 3.3. inches | 13 hours |
September | 72 F | 3.6 inches | 12 hours |
October | 60 F | 2.9 inches | 11 hours |
November | 50 F | 4.5 inches | 10 hours |
December | 42 F | 4.5 inches | 10 hours |
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Tell us why!
Sources
TripSavvy uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Time and Date. "Climate & Weather Averages in Nashville." December 2020.