Typical Temperatures in Atlanta: What to Expect Throughout the Year

If you’re asking “What is temp in Atlanta?”, you’re usually trying to figure out how hot, how cold, and how humid it gets, and what that means for your day. Whether you live in Atlanta, you’re planning a visit, or you’re moving here, understanding Atlanta’s weather and climate helps you dress, plan activities, and stay comfortable.

Below is a clear breakdown of typical temperatures in Atlanta, Georgia, season by season, plus what locals know about humidity, storms, and daily temperature swings.

Quick Snapshot: Average Atlanta Temperatures by Season

These are typical temperature ranges in Atlanta (in °F) so you can quickly see what “normal” feels like in the city.

These are general ranges, not exact numbers for every day, but they reflect what many people in Atlanta experience over a typical year.

Atlanta’s Climate in Plain Language

Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate. In everyday terms, that means:

• Hot, humid summers
• Mild to cool winters (with occasional brief cold snaps)
• Comfortable spring and fall, although spring brings heavy pollen
• Plenty of rain spread throughout the year, with storms more common in warmer months

So when you ask “what is the temp in Atlanta,” the real answer depends on when in the year you’re asking.

Winter Temperatures in Atlanta (December–February)

Winter in Atlanta is relatively mild compared to many northern cities, but it can still feel cold, especially with damp air and wind.

Typical winter temps in Atlanta:

• Daytime highs: usually in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s°F
• Nighttime lows: often in the low‑30s to low‑40s°F
• Cold snaps: can briefly drop below freezing, especially overnight

You might see a few days each year with temperatures in the 20s°F in the morning, but long stretches of deep cold are uncommon.

Snow and ice:

• Snow is rare and usually light, but it does happen some winters.
• Ice storms and freezing rain can occur and often cause more disruption than snow.
• When winter weather is expected, local agencies like the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and City of Atlanta public works prepare roads and bridges, and schools and offices may close or delay openings.

If you live in or visit Atlanta in winter, you’ll usually want:

• A medium-weight jacket
• Layers for days that start cold and warm up
• Extra caution on the roads if wintry precipitation is in the forecast

Spring Temperatures in Atlanta (March–May)

Spring is one of the most comfortable times of year for Atlanta’s temperature—though it’s also famous for pollen.

Typical spring temps in Atlanta:

• Daytime highs: generally mid‑60s to upper‑70s°F
• Nighttime lows: roughly mid‑40s to mid‑50s°F
• Early spring can still have a few cool or chilly days, while late spring often feels like early summer.

By late April and May, many days are warm enough for short sleeves in the afternoon, with cooler mornings and evenings.

What to expect:

• Frequent temperature swings: One week can feel cool and breezy, the next almost summer‑like.
• Thunderstorms: As temps rise, afternoon and evening storms become more common.
• High pollen counts: Even if the temperature feels great, many residents notice yellow pollen on cars and sidewalks, especially around areas like Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and tree‑lined neighborhoods.

Summer Temperatures in Atlanta (June–August)

This is when “Hotlanta” earns its nickname. The most noticeable features of an Atlanta summer are heat and humidity.

Typical summer temps in Atlanta:

• Daytime highs: commonly in the upper‑80s to mid‑90s°F
• Nighttime lows: often in the upper‑60s to mid‑70s°F, and it may stay warm even late at night
• Some days can reach the upper‑90s°F, and heat index values (what it “feels like” with humidity) can be even higher.

How it feels:

• Heat can feel “heavy” or “sticky” because of the humidity.
• Shade and air conditioning make a huge difference; many Atlantans plan outdoor activities for early morning or later evening.
• Afternoon pop‑up thunderstorms are common, especially on hot and humid days. You may see sun, dark clouds, heavy rain, then sun again all in the same afternoon.

If you’re spending time in Atlanta in summer, it helps to:

• Wear light, breathable clothing
• Drink plenty of water, especially if walking around Downtown, Midtown, or the Atlanta BeltLine
• Take advantage of indoor, air‑conditioned spaces during peak afternoon heat

Fall Temperatures in Atlanta (September–November)

Fall is often considered one of the best seasons in Atlanta for temperature and comfort.

Typical fall temps in Atlanta:

• Early fall highs: often still in the upper‑70s to low‑80s°F, gradually dropping
• Later fall highs: usually in the upper‑60s to mid‑70s°F
• Nighttime lows: commonly in the upper‑40s to mid‑50s°F by late fall

What to expect:

• Less humidity than summer, especially from October onward.
• Many days that feel ideal for outdoor plans: festivals, walks through Inman Park, or visiting Stone Mountain Park.
• Cool, sometimes crisp mornings and warm afternoons—layering becomes useful again.

Atlanta can still have a few warm days in October, so fall isn’t instantly “cool,” but overall it’s much more comfortable than peak summer.

Daily Temperature Swings in Atlanta

In addition to seasonal changes, Atlanta often has noticeable morning‑to‑afternoon temperature differences:

• Cooler mornings: Many days start out 10–20°F cooler than the afternoon high.
• Warm afternoons: Sun and humidity can make the temperature rise quickly.
• Evenings: Often still mild, especially in late spring through early fall.

This is why locals often dress in layers—a light jacket early in the day that’s easy to carry or remove later.

Humidity, Heat Index, and How It Really Feels

When people ask about the “temp in Atlanta,” they often care more about how it feels, not just the number on a thermometer.

Atlanta’s humidity can make a big difference:

• In summer, high humidity can make an 88°F day feel more like the mid‑90s°F.
• Even on some mild spring or fall days, humidity can make it feel warmer than the actual temperature.
• In winter, damp air and wind can make temperatures in the 40s°F feel chillier than expected.

Many Atlantans pay attention to:

• The heat index (in warm months)
• The “feels like” temperature in weather apps
• Air quality and pollen levels in spring and early summer

Where to Check the Current Temperature in Atlanta

If you need the exact temperature right now in Atlanta, you’ll want a real-time source, since this article focuses on typical patterns.

Common ways people in Atlanta stay updated:

• Weather apps on smartphones (using location set to Atlanta, GA)
• Local TV and radio stations that share Atlanta forecasts
• Public alerts from agencies during severe weather

Key weather and emergency information often comes through:

• National Weather Service – Atlanta area forecasts
• City of Atlanta and Fulton County emergency management announcements
• Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) alerts during severe storms or extreme heat or cold

For in-person questions about broader emergency preparedness related to heat, storms, or winter weather, residents sometimes contact:

• Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency
  130 Peachtree Street SW, Suite 1900
  Atlanta, GA 30303
  Phone: (404) 612‑5660

They do not give you the minute‑by‑minute temperature, but they can be a resource for understanding how local weather risks are handled in Atlanta.

Practical Tips for Dressing and Planning in Atlanta Weather

Here’s how many residents adjust to typical Atlanta temperatures:

Winter (Dec–Feb):

• Wear layers, including a jacket or coat.
• Keep gloves and a hat handy for early mornings or occasional cold snaps.
• Watch forecasts closely if snow or ice is mentioned—roads can quickly become hazardous.

Spring (Mar–May):

• Light layers: long sleeves in the morning, short sleeves by afternoon.
• Keep a light rain jacket or umbrella for passing showers and storms.
• If you have allergies, you may want to limit outdoor time during peak pollen days, especially in heavily wooded neighborhoods.

Summer (Jun–Aug):

• Choose light, breathable fabrics and a hat or sunglasses if you’re outside.
• Try to schedule outdoor activities earlier in the day or later in the evening.
• Many people plan breaks in air‑conditioned spaces when exploring areas like Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead.

Fall (Sep–Nov):

• Layer with light sweaters or jackets; you might remove them by afternoon.
• Great time for outdoor activities: the temperature is usually comfortable for parks, trails, and festivals.
• Still keep an umbrella nearby—storms don’t completely disappear.

Key Takeaways About Temperature in Atlanta

• The “temp in Atlanta” varies a lot across the year: mild winters, hot humid summers, and pleasant spring and fall.
• Summer highs commonly reach the upper‑80s to mid‑90s°F, with high humidity.
• Winter highs tend to be in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s°F, with cooler nights and occasional brief freezes.
• Spring and fall are often considered the most comfortable seasons, with moderate temps and less extreme humidity (aside from spring pollen).
• Daily temperatures can swing significantly between morning and afternoon, making layers a practical choice most of the year.

If you’re planning your day, trip, or move, knowing these typical Atlanta temperatures will help you pack, dress, and schedule activities in a way that fits how the city really feels throughout the year.