Weather in Melbourne: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Despite Australia's reputation as a sunny coastal paradise, Melbourne's southern location means it experiences large seasonal variations between hot and cold temperatures. Its most noteworthy quality, though, is the unpredictable bursts of sun, wind, and rain no matter the season. The city famously inspired the classic Crowded House song "Four Seasons in One Day," and locals are always prepared with a sweater or an umbrella on hand.

As Australia is located in the southern hemisphere, Melbourne's seasons are the opposite to those in the U.S. Summer (December to February) can be quite warm, with high temperatures ranging from 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius). This is also peak tourist season in Melbourne for domestic travelers. High rainfall in November and December often make the city feel muggy, with humidity reaching 60 percent. Although it is not a stereotypical Australian beach city, Melbourne does offer plenty of sandy stretches around Port Phillip bay on which to sunbathe.

The winter months (June, July and August) are certainly cool compared to Sydney and Brisbane but still bearable if you come prepared, with temperatures dipping to 44 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius).

Due to its temperamental climate, visitors to Melbourne should plan their trip to coincide with the more moderate days of spring and fall if possible. The most important events and festivals also occur during these seasons.

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Month: January (79 degrees Fahrenheit / 26 degrees Celsius) 
• Coldest Month: July (56 degrees Fahrenheit / 13 degrees Celsius)
• Wettest Month: October (2.6 inches)
• Best Month for Swimming: January (66 degrees Fahrenheit / 19 degrees Celsius)

Summer in Melbourne

Summer in Melbourne is warm and occasionally very hot. Certain areas can be crowded as Australians take their annual vacations over Christmas and New Year. The city's beaches are a popular destination, especially Brighton Beach with its colorful bathing boxes, as are the many parks, and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Long days and warm nights make summer an ideal time to explore the hip, small bars on Melbourne's laneways and enjoy the accompanying rooftop views.

Visitors should prepare for scattered rain throughout the season. December can be especially humid, so its days are best spent inside Melbourne's excellent museums and galleries. The Australian Open tennis tournament and the Australia Day national holiday bring the city to a standstill in late January, so plan to visit in February to beat the crowds.

What to pack: Melbournians are known for their on-trend style, but in summer they're not afraid to dress for comfort. Shorts, skirts, and dresses in natural fabrics are a good bet, along with a light rain jacket.

Average Temperatures by Month:

December: 75 degrees F (24 degrees C) / 56 degrees F (13 degrees C)

January: 79 degrees F (26 degrees C) / 60 F (16 degrees C)

February: 81 degrees F (27 degrees C) / 57 F (14 degrees C)

Fall in Melbourne

Melbourne's days begin to cool off quickly in fall, with golden foliage shrouding the city. The fresher temperatures are a welcome relief from the summer heat, and the city's calendar is packed with iconic events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Winter in Melbourne can feel like it starts as early as May, which may explain the locals obsession with cozy cafes and European-style espresso.

What to pack: Prepare for cold snaps with jeans and layers up top. A light jacket will also come in handy.

Average Temperatures by Month:

March: 76 degrees F (24 degrees C) / 55 degrees F (13 degrees C)

April: 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) / 51 degrees F (11 degrees C)

May: 64 degrees F (18 degrees C) / 47 degrees F (8 degrees C)

Winter in Melbourne

In June, Melbourne hits its lowest levels of sunshine, at only three hours per day. Winter as a whole is largely cool and overcast, but it almost seems appropriate for such a chic destination. Dress appropriately and you'll find yourself embracing Melbourne's too-cool-for-school vibe at the many sophisticated restaurants and wine bars scattered around the city.

What to pack: Bring a warm jacket, gloves, and a scarf. Melbourne's fashion forward residents generally favor black and neutral colors, especially during the colder months.

Average Temperatures by Month:

June: 57 degrees F (14 degrees C) / 44 degrees F (7 degrees C)

July: 56 degrees F (14 degrees C) / 42 degrees F (5 degrees C)

August: 58 degrees F (14 degrees C) / 43 degrees F (6 degrees C)

Spring in Melbourne

Things kick back into high gear as the days warm up, with Melbourne Fashion Week, the Melbourne Cup horse racing carnival, and the Melbourne Festival (a city-wide arts and culture event) all on the cards.

The Fitzroy, Flagstaff, and Carlton Gardens are all inner-city oases, perfect for relaxing among the flowers and shady trees. Just out of town, the region's blooming lavender fields are another big drawcard for Instagram-savvy travelers.

What to pack: Melbourne can take a while to defrost, so don't forget a jacket or sweater in early spring. At the same time, you'll be able to take advantage of the sunshine with short sleeves and jeans.

Average Temperatures by Month:

September: 62 degrees F (17 degrees C) / 45 degrees F (7 degrees C)

October: 71 degrees F (21 degrees C) / 51 degrees F (10 degrees C)

November: 75 degrees F (24 degrees C) / 54 degrees F (12 degrees C)