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Portland, Oregon’s largest city, sits where the Willamette River meets the Columbia River, about 105km (65 miles) west of Mount Hood and 110km (68 miles) from the Pacific Ocean. Its climate is mild and oceanic, with a long rainy season from October to May and a reliably dry, sunny summer. July and August average 27°C (81°F) with under 20mm of rain, while December and January average 8°C (46°F) with 115mm to 124mm. The city is best known for Powell’s City of Books, more than 600 food carts, and one of the largest urban park systems in the country. Below you’ll find a full set of Portland guides: a Portland weather by month breakdown, the best time to visit Portland, and the best things to do in Portland.
Welcome to Portland: What to Know
Portland operates on a standard Pacific time and expects tipping (18 to 20 percent) at restaurants, and there is no sales tax. The city is small enough to explore without a car: MAX light rail, the streetcar, and TriMet buses charge a flat US$2.50 per two-hour ride, and an all-day pass caps at US$5.60. The airport is a 40-minute Red Line train direct to downtown. Pack a waterproof layer for any visit outside summer, and book July accommodations early, since the Rose Festival and blues festival fill rooms.
Portland Weather at a Glance
Portland averages 915mm (36 inches) of rain and 155 rainy days a year, but nearly all of it falls between October and May. Summers are dry: July and August each average about 13mm to 17mm of rain and 300-plus hours of sunshine. Winters are cool and grey rather than cold, with rare snow averaging 11cm (4.3 inches) a season. Humidity holds at 70 to 80 percent year-round because of the Pacific influence.
Portland Seasonal Snapshot
- Winter (Dec to Feb): Highs 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F), 100mm to 124mm of rain monthly, occasional snow.
- Spring (Mar to May): Warming from 13°C to 19°C (56°F to 67°F), rain easing to 48mm by May, gardens in bloom.
- Summer (Jun to Aug): Highs 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F), only 13mm to 34mm of rain, long sunny days.
- Fall (Sep to Nov): Highs 24°C down to 11°C (75°F to 52°F), foliage peaks in October, rain returns in earnest by November.
All Portland Guides
Use these pages to plan your trip: the Portland weather by month guide, our best time to visit Portland breakdown, and the things to do in Portland list. For lodging, see where to stay in Portland, and check the best neighborhoods in Portland to pick a base. Finally, read Portland events and festivals and the Portland travel tips FAQ.
Portland Location and Climate Context
Portland sits at sea level in the Willamette Valley, flanked by the Coast Range to the west and the Cascade Range to the east. The Coast Range blocks most Pacific storms’ heaviest downpours, giving Portland a drier, warmer climate than coastal towns like Astoria. Mount Hood, a 3,429-meter (11,249-foot) volcano about 48km (30 miles) east, provides skiing from November into May just 90 minutes from downtown. The Columbia River Gorge channels strong east winds into the city, and occasional east-wind events can spike summer temperatures above 32°C (90°F).
Portland Quick Facts
- Best beach months: None; the ocean is 110km (68 miles) away and cold year-round, but June to September are best for Willamette River swimming.
- Warmest months: July and August, averaging 27°C (81°F).
- Coolest month: January, averaging 8°C (46°F) high and 3°C (37°F) low.
- Wettest months: November (142mm) and December (115mm).
- Driest months: July (13mm) and August (17mm).
- Snow: About 11cm (4.3 inches) a year, rarely lasting.
Where to Stay in Portland
Downtown and the Pearl District hold most upscale hotels and put you in walking distance of the attractions, while the east side offers better value with a short transit ride. Our where to stay in Portland guide matches three neighborhoods to hotels at every budget.
Suggested Hotels in Portland
The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel
A five-star hotel in the landmark Meier & Frank building on Pioneer Courthouse Square, with a rooftop restaurant, Departure, and an indoor pool. Best for couples who want the most central full-service stay in the city. Check rates and availability
The Mark Spencer Hotel
An independent arts hotel two minutes from Powell’s Books, with free evening wine receptions and a streetcar stop out front. Best for book lovers and mid-range budgets. Check rates and availability
Jupiter Hotel
A 1960s motor lodge turned rock-and-roll boutique hotel with the Doug Fir Lounge attached, on the affordable east side. Best for budget travelers and music fans. Check rates and availability
