Buffalo USA Temperature: What the Weather Is Really Like Year-Round
If you’re planning a trip, thinking about moving, or just curious about the climate, understanding the Buffalo USA temperature can help you prepare. Buffalo, New York sits near Lake Erie, and that location shapes its weather more than people expect. Yes, winters are cold, but there’s more to the story than snow headlines.
Below is a clear, season-by-season breakdown of Buffalo’s temperatures, what feels normal to locals, and what visitors should know.
Where Buffalo’s Weather Comes From
Buffalo is in western New York, right on the eastern edge of Lake Erie. That lake plays a major role in temperature swings.
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In winter, Lake Erie causes lake-effect snow
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In summer, it helps moderate extreme heat
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Spring and fall tend to be cool and unpredictable
Because of this, the Buffalo USA temperature doesn’t behave the same way as other cities at the same latitude.
Winter Temperature in Buffalo, USA
Winter is the season Buffalo is most known for, and yes, it gets cold.
Average Winter Temperatures
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December: 25°F to 38°F (-4°C to 3°C)
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January: 20°F to 32°F (-7°C to 0°C)
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February: 22°F to 34°F (-6°C to 1°C)
Cold snaps can drop temperatures into the single digits, and wind chill can make it feel colder. However, most winter days hover around the freezing mark rather than extreme Arctic cold.
Snowfall is frequent, but temperatures usually stay steady rather than wildly fluctuating.
Spring Temperature in Buffalo, USA
Spring arrives slowly in Buffalo.
Average Spring Temperatures
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March: 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C)
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April: 40°F to 58°F (4°C to 14°C)
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May: 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C)
Early spring still feels like winter, but by May, the city warms up nicely. Rain is common, and mornings can be chilly even when afternoons feel comfortable.
Locals often say spring in Buffalo is short, but pleasant once it settles in.
Summer Temperature in Buffalo, USA
Summers are one of Buffalo’s best-kept secrets.
Average Summer Temperatures
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June: 58°F to 75°F (14°C to 24°C)
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July: 63°F to 80°F (17°C to 27°C)
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August: 62°F to 79°F (17°C to 26°C)
The Buffalo USA temperature in summer is warm but rarely extreme. Heat waves happen, but they don’t last long. Lake Erie helps cool evenings, so nights are often comfortable without heavy air conditioning.
This is the most popular time for festivals, outdoor dining, and waterfront activities.
Fall Temperature in Buffalo, USA
Fall is crisp, colorful, and calm.
Average Fall Temperatures
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September: 55°F to 72°F (13°C to 22°C)
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October: 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 16°C)
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November: 35°F to 48°F (2°C to 9°C)
September still feels like summer, while November starts to hint at winter. Fall foliage peaks in October, and many residents consider this the most comfortable season of the year.
Does Buffalo Have Extreme Temperatures?
Compared to many U.S. cities, Buffalo’s temperatures are moderate, not extreme.
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Summers are cooler than the South or Midwest
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Winters are cold but not as brutal as upper Midwest cities
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Temperature swings are smaller due to the lake
The biggest challenge is snow, not temperature.
Best Time to Visit Buffalo Based on Temperature
If temperature comfort matters most:
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Best months: June, July, August, and September
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Cool but pleasant: May and October
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Cold lovers only: December through February
For outdoor activities, late spring through early fall offers the best balance.How Buffalo’s Temperature Compares to Other U.S. Cities
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Cooler summers than New York City or Chicago
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Colder winters than Philadelphia or Washington, D.C.
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More consistent temperatures than inland cities
The Buffalo USA temperature is steady and predictable once you understand the seasonal patterns.
Final Thoughts on Buffalo USA Temperature
Buffalo’s weather often gets labeled as harsh, but that reputation is only partly true. The city experiences four clear seasons, manageable summer heat, and winters that are cold but stable.
If you’re prepared for snow and enjoy cooler air, Buffalo’s climate can actually be comfortable and livable year-round.
Understanding the Buffalo USA temperature helps set realistic expectations, whether you’re visiting for a weekend or considering a long-term move.
Quick FAQ
Is Buffalo colder than New York City?
Yes, especially in winter. Summers are usually cooler too.
Does Buffalo get very hot in summer?
Rarely. Most summer days stay under 85°F.
What month is the coldest in Buffalo?
January is typically the coldest month.