Every tourism board claims their destination has "four distinct seasons" and "perfect weather". We compiled decades of climate data to show you how cities actually match up when you look at average rain days, high temperatures, and humidity.
Popular Weather Matchups
| Matchup | Warmest Month | Rainiest Month | Sarcastic Weather Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle vs. Boston |
Seattle: July (79°F) Boston: July (82°F) |
Seattle: Nov (6.2") Boston: Nov (4.0") |
Seattle summers are flawless, but winter is basically five months of dark drizzle. Boston winters will actually freeze your pipes. |
| Chicago vs. Denver |
Chicago: July (84°F) Denver: July (89°F) |
Chicago: Aug (4.9") Denver: May (2.5") |
Chicago combines freezing lake winds with summer swamp humidity. Denver has dry heat, but get ready for surprise May snowstorms. |
| Austin vs. Phoenix |
Austin: Aug (98°F) Phoenix: July (106°F) |
Austin: May (4.4") Phoenix: Aug (1.0") |
Phoenix is a dry oven where touching your car door handle is a safety hazard. Austin adds thick Gulf humidity to its summer heat. Both are uninhabitable from July to September. |
Why Historical Averages Matter
Weather apps show you a 10-day forecast. That is useful if you are deciding whether to carry an umbrella tomorrow. It is useless if you are booking a wedding venue or buying a house.
By looking at 70 years of historical climate benchmarks, you can see the actual trends. You can tell if a heatwave is an anomaly or the new normal, and you can map out rainy seasons with statistical confidence rather than relying on tourism brochure promises.