Atlanta Temperatures: What to Expect From the Weather Year-Round

If you’re planning life, travel, or even a wardrobe around Atlanta temp, it helps to know what the city’s weather is really like month by month. Atlanta, Georgia sits in the humid subtropical climate zone, which means hot, humid summers, mild winters, and plenty of rain spread through the year.

This guide breaks down typical temperatures in Atlanta, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for residents and visitors so you can plan your day, your commute, or your trip with fewer surprises.

Atlanta’s Climate at a Glance

Key takeaways about Atlanta temperatures:

• Winters: Generally mild; short cold snaps, occasional freezing nights, and rare snow
• Springs: Comfortable, with cool mornings and warm afternoons
• Summers: Hot, humid, and often stormy in the late afternoon
• Fall: Pleasant, with warm days and cooler, refreshing evenings

Typical Temperature Ranges by Season

Below is a simplified overview of average high and low temperatures in Atlanta by season:

Actual temperatures can vary, especially during heat waves or cold fronts, but these ranges give a realistic sense of what to expect.

Winter in Atlanta: Mild, With Occasional Freezes

Months: December – February

Winters in Atlanta are usually mild compared to much of the country, but they can still feel cold and damp, especially on windy or rainy days.

• Typical daytime highs: mid 40s to mid 50s °F
• Typical overnight lows: low 30s to low 40s °F
• Cold snaps: Temperatures can dip into the 20s or lower a few times a winter, sometimes leading to black ice and light snow or sleet.

What Atlantans Should Know in Winter

• Ice is more common than deep snow. Even a small amount of ice can cause road closures and major traffic issues, especially on I‑75/85, GA‑400, and hilly neighborhood streets.
• Schools and offices may close during winter weather events, as the region isn’t designed for heavy snow equipment.
• If you’re visiting and picking up a rental car, be prepared for Southern drivers who may not be used to ice.

For official winter weather updates, you can monitor local guidance from:

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

Spring in Atlanta: Comfortable but Changeable

Months: March – May

Spring in Atlanta is usually one of the most pleasant times temperature-wise, but the weather can flip quickly from cool to warm.

• Early spring highs: around the 60s °F
• Late spring highs: often in the 70s and low 80s °F
• Overnight lows: generally in the 40s to 50s °F

You’ll notice:

• Cool morning commutes and warm lunchtime walks
• Increasing pollen levels as trees and plants bloom
• A mix of sunny days and occasional thunderstorms

Practical Tips for Spring Temps

• Dress in layers: a light jacket or sweater for mornings, short sleeves for afternoons.
• If you walk or bike the Atlanta BeltLine, plan for cooler conditions early and warmer, sunnier temps by midday.
• Expect frequent temperature swings when cold fronts move through.

Summer in Atlanta: Hot, Humid, and Stormy

Months: June – August (often extending into early September)

Summers in Atlanta are hot and humid, and that’s what most people mean when they talk about “Atlanta temp” being intense.

• Typical daytime highs: mid 80s to low 90s °F
• Warm spells: Highs can reach the mid to upper 90s °F during heat waves
• Overnight lows: usually upper 60s to low 70s °F
• Humidity: High, especially in the afternoons, making it feel hotter than the thermometer reading.

Common Summer Weather Patterns

• Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are frequent, often popping up quickly.
• Short but intense downpours, thunder, and lightning can impact outdoor events, commutes, and flights at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
• Heat and humidity are noticeable in concrete-heavy areas like Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, and near major interstates.

Staying Comfortable in Atlanta’s Summer Heat

• Plan outdoor activities (Piedmont Park, BeltLine, hikes at Stone Mountain) for early morning or early evening when temps are lower.
• Many Atlantans rely on air conditioning as essential, not optional, during July and August.
• If you use MARTA, expect outdoor platforms to feel very warm during peak afternoon heat.

For heat and severe storm information, you can check updates from:

• National Weather Service – Atlanta Forecast Office
  – 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
  – Recorded weather info line: (770) 486‑1133

Fall in Atlanta: One of the Best Times Weather-Wise

Months: September – November

Fall is often considered the most comfortable season in Atlanta when it comes to temperature.

• Early fall highs: still in the 80s °F, gradually dropping
• Mid to late fall highs: generally in the 60s to 70s °F
• Overnight lows: from the 50s down into the 40s as the season progresses

You’ll notice:

• Less humidity and more crisp, clear days
• Comfortable temperatures for football games, festivals, and outdoor dining
• Gradual cooling, making it easier to be outside all day

This is a popular time for:

• Events in Downtown and Midtown
• Visits to Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, and Krog Street Market
• Weekend trips to North Georgia mountains for cooler temps and changing leaves

Monthly Temperature Feel: Atlanta Year-Round

Here’s a simple, Atlanta-focused month-by-month feel guide:

• January: Cold to cool; frosty mornings possible, occasional freezing temps
• February: Cool with some milder days; still winter, but hints of warm-ups
• March: Cool mornings, milder afternoons; early spring feel, can be breezy
• April: Pleasant; many days feel “just right” for being outside
• May: Warm but not usually extreme; great for patios and parks
• June: Hotter days start; humidity increases, first real summer heat
• July: Typically one of the hottest months; high heat and humidity
• August: Similar to July; hot, sticky, frequent afternoon storms
• September: Still warm, but humidity slowly eases later in the month
• October: Mild and comfortable; cool mornings, warm afternoons
• November: Cool but usually not harsh; jacket weather, not heavy-coat weather
• December: Chilly to cool; feels like winter, with some mild days in between

How Atlanta Temp Affects Daily Life

Clothing and Gear Choices

If you live in Atlanta, you’ll generally want:

• Light, breathable clothing for late spring through early fall
• A medium-weight jacket and a few sweaters for winter
• An umbrella or light rain jacket handy year-round
• Comfortable walking shoes that can handle sudden showers

Visitors who underestimate summer heat and humidity often find jeans and heavy fabrics uncomfortable. Locals commonly switch to short sleeves, shorts, and sandals during the hottest months.

Housing and Commuting

• Most homes and apartments rely heavily on air conditioning in summer and moderate heating in winter.
• If you commute via I‑285, I‑75/85, or GA‑400, be aware that heavy rain or rare ice can quickly create major slowdowns.
• Walking and biking are more pleasant in spring and fall, while summer midday conditions can be draining without shade.

Where Atlantans Get Temperature and Weather Info

You can get official, localized temp and forecast information for Atlanta from several sources:

• City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management & Emergency Alerts
  – 72 Marietta Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
  – Main line: (404) 330‑6000

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

• National Weather Service – Atlanta/Peachtree City Office
  – 4 Falcon Drive, Peachtree City, GA 30269
  – Recorded info: (770) 486‑1133

Local TV stations and radio also provide current Atlanta temps, heat advisories, and storm warnings tailored to different parts of the metro area, from Downtown and Midtown to suburban areas like Sandy Springs, Decatur, College Park, and Marietta.

Quick Tips for Navigating Atlanta Temps 🌤️

• Visiting in winter? Pack a medium coat, layers, and be prepared for chilly rain more than snow.
• Visiting in summer? Plan indoor, air‑conditioned breaks and schedule outdoor time for mornings or later evenings.
• New to Atlanta? Expect to use your AC heavily in summer and a light to moderate heater in winter, not extreme heating.
• Outdoor plans? Always check the day’s temperature and storm chances before heading to the park, BeltLine, or outdoor events.

Understanding Atlanta temperatures throughout the year helps you dress smart, plan your activities, and avoid getting caught off guard by heat, humidity, or the occasional icy morning.