Raleigh weather in May
May in Raleigh averages 80°F by day and 58°F at night, with 3.4 inches of precipitation. It is the 5th-warmest and 9th-wettest month of the year here.
- Average high
- 80°F+7° vs April
- Average low
- 58°F0 nights below freezing
- Precipitation
- 3.4 in7 days with 0.1 in. or more
- Snow
- 0.0 in3 days at 90°F+
Is May a good time to visit Raleigh?
Yes. May is one of the most comfortable months in Raleigh 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 April to May and October.
Get outside in Raleigh in May
May is made for being outside. Try Pullen Park, Dix Park. All things to do in Raleigh.
On May 15 the sun rises at 6:09 am and sets at 8:12 pm, giving 14h 03m of daylight. Daylight all year.
What to pack for Raleigh in May
- Summer clothes, with a light layer for air conditioning
Based on 30-year averages, not a forecast. Check the forecast a few days before you go.
May nearby
| City | Distance | High | Low | Precip. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | 80°F | 58°F | 3.4 in | |
| Cary, NC | 9 mi | 80°F | 58°F | 3.4 in |
| Apex, NC | 13 mi | 80°F | 58°F | 3.4 in |
| Durham, NC | 22 mi | 80°F | 58°F | 3.4 in |
| Fayetteville, NC | 54 mi | 81°F | 58°F | 3.4 in |
| Greensboro, NC | 68 mi | 78°F | 57°F | 3.5 in |
| Greenville, NC | 71 mi | 81°F | 59°F | 4.0 in |
Frequently asked questions
What is the weather like in Raleigh in May?
In May, Raleigh averages a high of 80°F and a low of 58°F, with 3.4 inches of precipitation (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
Is May a good time to visit Raleigh?
Yes. May is one of Raleigh'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 Raleigh in May?
Rarely. The May snowfall normal is under half an inch.
Before and after: Raleigh in April and Raleigh in June. All twelve months: Raleigh weather by month.
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Raleigh Durham Intl. Airport, NC, 10.9 miles from the city center.