Minneapolis, also known as the City of Lakes, has a population of 429,954. It’s located in Minnesota, in the Midwestern region of the United States in the Northern Hemisphere. Despite its reputation as one of the coldest US cities, it has a surprisingly pleasant climate. Fairbanks, Alaska; Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska; Grand Forks, North Dakota; and Anchorage, Alaska, are all colder than Minneapolis and the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area.
Minneapolis's Köppen climate classification is Dfa, which is best characterized as a hot-summer humid continental (without a dry season.) Despite the colder months, the Minneapolis climate is entirely enjoyable, depending on your preference. If you’re seeking sandy beaches, living in Minneapolis may not be the location for you. However, if a few inches of snow doesn’t scare you and you appreciate warm springs and summers with low humidity, contact The Move Crew at (612) 361-6787 to help move you to this midwestern gem.
It’s important to understand the difference between climate and weather when considering a new city. Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a particular time, such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind. On the other hand, climate describes the long-term average of weather patterns over an extended period, typically 30 years or more, in a particular region. While weather can change from day to day, climate represents the expected range of conditions based on historical data.
Minneapolis has four distinct seasons, each offering unique activities and experiences, from winter sports to summer festivals and autumn hikes. The unique climate of Minneapolis, Minnesota, can accommodate most desires at some point in the year. It’s not uncommon for snowbirds to call Minneapolis home; however, many residents love living there year-round. 44,000 Minnesotans also live part-time in other states like Florida, Arizona, and Texas.
The Minneapolis climate is typically most enjoyable from April to June. Spring weather means gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from 35 degrees Fahrenheit to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow melts and gives way to blooming flowers and budding trees; you can delightfully watch Coneflowers, Geraniums, and Daylilies bloom throughout the city. Just remember to grab your umbrella, as rain showers are common during the spring months.
Despite heavy rainfall sometimes being an issue, residents still enjoy outdoor warm-weather activities like catching a Twins game at the Target Field or perusing the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Art Fair.
The average rainfall in March is 0.5 inches, and by June, it increases to 4.3 inches. The average annual precipitation in Minneapolis is 32 inches.
The Summer months in Minneapolis are warm and pleasant, but humidity is present. Temperatures are typically in the 70s, but the Minneapolis summer high temperatures are in the mid-80s. The average summer humidity level in Minneapolis is 64.8%.
Due to the urban heat island effect, downtown Minneapolis can experience extreme heat levels. In fact, some areas that are located in more urbanized areas of Minneapolis can see heat increases of more than 9 degrees higher than other more rural communities.
If you’re planning a big trip to Minny, you should note that the best time to visit Minneapolis is June to August. The city comes alive in June, July, and August with outdoor festivals, concerts, and activities. Residents and visitors enjoy the numerous lakes, parks, and bike trails. Extended daylight hours and generally sunny weather make it an ideal time for picnics, boating, and exploring the vibrant neighborhoods.
The hottest month in Minneapolis is July, with an average high of 83 degrees. Luckily, Mill City has plenty of ways to beat the heat; the best things to do in the summer in Minneapolis are to visit Minnehaha Falls and win at Lake Harriet.
A significant climate risk in Minneapolis is tornados, high precipitation, and heat. The tornado season starts in late spring (May) and ends in late summer (August), but tornadoes can occur in any season.
Vibrant foliage and colder temps mean Minneapolis fall is in full swing! Grab your pumpkin spice latte—you’ve got fall festivals to explore and autumn weather to enjoy! Minneapolis Hard Cider & Doughnut Fest takes place in September, and “Horn-ucopia” Fall Funk Fest is in October, but there are many more events and things to check out during Minneapolis autumn.
September, October, and November are the last few comfortable months before the region's intense winter takes over. By November, the daily high is only 34 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures can reach the low 20s. Autumn in Minneapolis is beautiful but short-lived; come November, snowfall is already wreaking havoc.
Once December rolls around, Minneapolitans are bundled up and hunkering down for some cold temps and snow days ahead. Minneapolis's winter weather is just what you’d expect from a Minnesota city: cold and snowy. On average, Minneapolis gets 37.1 inches of snow in the winter months. The average daily high from November to early March is 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Minneapolis’s coldest month is January, with an average daily temperature of 10 degrees.
Minneapolis's winter precipitation is pretty much constant; the chance of a wet day is around 11% throughout the winter.
Although cold, there are still plenty of Minneapolis winter activities to partake in! You can explore the Northeast Winter Market at Quincy Hall or check out the Nordic Village at Riva Terrace. One of the top things to do in Minneapolis in the winter is the St. Paul Winter Carnival!
While temperatures can dip below freezing, Minneapolis is not the coldest US state, Alaska is! Although residents tend to peg March as Minnepaolis snowiest month, data shows it’s actually December, with an average snowfall of around 11.4 inches—talk about a white Christmas!
Here is a look at the Minneapolis weather by month and what to expect after relocating to Minneapolis. Humid conditions and hot temperatures are apparent in the summer, and cold winters are unavoidable. Heavy rainfalls are typical in the springtime. Each season boasts its own distinct characteristics that can be appealing to anyone.
January's average temperature is 16.2 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can range anywhere from 28 degrees to 8.9 degrees. Thus, January is typically the coldest month in Minneapolis.
Cold weather means winter activities! The top things to do in Minneapolis in winter include ice skating at The Depot Ice Rink or Centennial Lakes Park; you can participate in the Saint Paul Winter Carnival, which includes ice sculptures, parades, and winter activities.
February’s average temperature is 21.8 degrees Fahrenheit, ranging from the high 20s to around 15 degrees. While it’s slightly warmer than January, February in Minneapolis is still very cold, with plenty of snow.
Love Month brings Valentine's Day events galore, alongside the notable Loppet Ski Festival, with cross-country ski races, ice biking, and other winter sports activities.
March temperatures are finally rising, and the spring season is just around the corner. The average daily temperature in March is 33.8 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can get as warm as 41.4 degrees. The average low is 26 degrees.
Minneapolis has a notable Irish population, with about 600,000 residents of Irish descent, meaning St. Patty’s Day is a serious holiday here. The city has a large parade in downtown Minneapolis. You can also visit the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory for the seasonal flower show.
In Minneapolis, April is the month of warmer temperatures and rain showers. The average temperature is 47 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can range from the high 50s to the mid-30s. Some years, the Twin Cities sees almost 5 inches of rain in April alone! You can swap your heavy-duty winter coat out for an umbrella and rain boots.
You can enjoy a spring baseball game at Target Field or visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art for its Art in Bloom event.
You can expect Clematis and Columbine blooms everywhere and wonderful temperatures by May. The average temperature is 59 degrees, but it can range from the low 70s to the high 40s. May is a beautiful month full of sunshine. In Minneapolis, the likelihood of a wet day in May increases throughout the month, beginning at 31% and rising to 37% by the end of the month.
Many residents enjoy the May at the Minneapolis Farmers Market and attend Art-A-Whirl, the largest open studio tour in the country, featuring local artists and galleries.
In June, the average temperature in Minneapolis is 69.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range includes an average high of 79.1 degrees and an average low of 59.9 degrees. June marks the start of summer, bringing warm and comfortable weather to the city. June is also the wettest month in Mill City, with an average precipitation of 4.3 inches. You won’t experience overly hot summers in Minneapolis unless a heat wave is taking place.
Take advantage of these warmer temps and spend plenty of time outside! The Stone Arch Bridge Festival offers art, music, and food along the historic Stone Arch Bridge.
The average temperature in Minneapolis in July is 74.9 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range includes an average high of 83.9 degrees and an average low of 65.8 degrees. July is typically the hottest month in Minneapolis.
Minneapolis has various fireworks events on the 4th of July, including a show over the Mississippi Riverfront.
August in Minneapolis has an average temperature of 72.6 degrees Fahrenheit, ranging from the high 80s to the low 60s. It remains warm but is slightly cooler than July. Nothing screams summer more than the Minnesota State Fair, one of the largest state fairs in the country. There are rides, games, food, exhibits, and more.
The warmer months are short-lived, and by September, temperatures are starting to drop.
The average temperature in Minneapolis in September is 63.5 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range includes an average high of 72.1 degrees and an average low of 54.8 degrees. September brings cooler temperatures and the beginning of fall, as well as many festivals and events to attend.
Step back in time by attending the Minnesota Renaissance Festival! If you're a runner, take advantage of the beautiful weather by participating in the Twin Cities Marathon.
October's average temperature is 50.8 degrees Fahrenheit, with an average high of 59 degrees and an average low of 42.6 degrees. October is a beautiful month for fall foliage and outdoor activities! One of the top things to do in Minneapolis in the fall is enjoy the autumn colors at parks like Minnehaha Falls and along the Mississippi River. The Twin Cities Film Fest is another popular event residents adore.
In November, the average temperature in Minneapolis is 35 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range includes an average high of 41.8 degrees and an average low of 28.1 degrees. With colder temperatures and the first snowfalls, November marks the transition to winter. November in the Twin Cities is considered dry, with minimal precipitation.
You can get your Christmas shopping done at the various holiday markets and fairs throughout the city.
December in Minneapolis brings winter festivals and an average temperature of 21.7 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature range includes an average high of 27.8 degrees and an average low of 15.6 degrees. December is cold, with frequent snowfall and the start of the winter season. The average monthly snowfall in December is around 4.7 inches, making it the snowiest month in Minneapolis.
Holidazzle is a notable holiday festival in Loring Park that features lights, entertainment, and holiday shopping. You can also enjoy a beautiful light display at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and the Union Depot.
Minneapolis has a variety of extreme weather conditions.
Although peak tourist season in Minneapolis is June to August, during these months, average daily highs are in the 80s. Visitors adore the many summer activities and events, but they also expect heightened hotel prices and larger crowds.
Many people say May or September are ideal months to visit Minneapolis as they are just before peak season, but the temperatures are still very enjoyable.
The ideal time to visit any city depends on your personal preference. Minneapolis winter is far from ideal weather, but if you’re interested in experiencing snow or a white Christmas, November through March would be your ideal months. Minneapolis has activities for all the seasons, making it a year-round destination. Downtown Minneapolis has seven miles of glass-enclosed skyways to help get its residents and visitors out of the cold.
If you’re seeking Minneapolis climate information before relocating to the Twin Cities, call The Move Crew at (612) 361-6787; we have top Minneapolis movers to handle the heavy lifting. We can weather any storm and get you to your new address on time and at the right price. Whether you’re transitioning to one of the top neighborhoods in Minneapolis or find neighboring St. Paul more attractive, we’re your guys. We serve the Twin Cities and its surrounding areas, including (but not limited to) Edina, Stillwater, and Apple Valley.
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