Knoxville weather in May

May in Knoxville averages 79°F by day and 57°F at night, with 4.1 inches of precipitation. It is the 5th-warmest and 9th-wettest month of the year here.

KnoxvilleTennesseePop. 202,021
Average high
79°F+8° vs April
Average low
57°F0 nights below freezing
Precipitation
4.1 in7 days with 0.1 in. or more
Snow
0.0 in1 days at 90°F+

Is May a good time to visit Knoxville?

Yes. May is one of the most comfortable months in Knoxville by our rule (highs of 62 to 86°F, lows of 42°F or more and under 4.5 inches of precipitation). The most comfortable months overall are May to June and September to October.

On May 15 the sun rises at 6:30 am and sets at 8:34 pm, giving 14h 04m of daylight. Daylight all year.

What to pack for Knoxville in May

  • Summer clothes, with a light layer for air conditioning
  • An umbrella or rain jacket

Based on 30-year averages, not a forecast. Check the forecast a few days before you go.

May nearby

CityDistanceHighLowPrecip.
Knoxville79°F57°F4.1 in
Asheville, NC84 mi76°F54°F3.5 in
Chattanooga, TN100 mi81°F59°F3.9 in
Greenville, SC118 mi80°F58°F4.1 in
Johns Creek, GA136 mi80°F59°F3.8 in
Roswell, GA138 mi80°F59°F3.8 in
Murfreesboro, TN138 mi79°F55°F4.9 in

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Knoxville in May?

In May, Knoxville averages a high of 79°F and a low of 57°F, with 4.1 inches of precipitation (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).

Is May a good time to visit Knoxville?

Yes. May is one of Knoxville's most comfortable months by our rule: highs between 62°F and 86°F, lows of 42°F or more and modest rain.

Does it snow in Knoxville in May?

Rarely. The May snowfall normal is under half an inch.

Before and after: Knoxville in April and Knoxville in June. All twelve months: Knoxville weather by month.

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Knoxville Mcghee Tyson Airport, TN, 12 miles from the city center.