Weather Comparison
Sydney vs Cancun
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Sydney vs Cancun
| Metric | Sydney | Cancun | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 19°C (66°F) | 29°C (84°F)▲ | Cancun |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 12°C (54°F) | 25°C (77°F)▲ | Cancun |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 7 days▲ | 14 days | Sydney |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 46 mm▲ | 91 mm | Sydney |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 8h/day | 12h/day▲ | Cancun |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 70%▲ | 78% | Sydney |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 2▲ | 9 | Sydney |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 15 km/h▲ | 19 km/h | Sydney |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Sydney edges ahead as the better destination in May. Sydney offers 8 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Cancun sees 12 sunshine hours and 14 rain days.
Sydney sits in the comfortable travel range at 19°C. Cancun runs hot at 29°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Sydney is the stronger choice in May. Cancun receives 4 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Sydney reaches an average high of 19°C (66°F) and drops to 12°C (54°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Cancun averages 29°C (84°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. There is a notable 10°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.
Sydney is in the Southern Hemisphere while Cancun is in the Northern Hemisphere. This means they experience opposite seasons, which explains any large temperature difference.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Sydney receives approximately 46 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during May. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.
Cancun sees 91 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Sydney the drier option by 7 rain days and 45 mm of total precipitation.
Humidity also differs: Sydney averages 70% while Cancun sits at 78%. Cancun will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.
What to Pack: Sydney vs Cancun
Packing for Sydney in May
Highs of 19°C, lows of 12°C, 7 rain days
- ✓warm layers
- ✓a mid-weight jacket
- ✓long trousers
- ✓a packable rain jacket
- ✓an umbrella
Packing for Cancun in May
Highs of 29°C, lows of 25°C, 14 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Year-Round Comparison: Sydney vs Cancun
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Sydney | Cancun | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 26°C | 9d | 25°C | 11d |
| Feb | 25°C | 10d | 26°C | 8d |
| Mar | 24°C | 10d | 27°C | 7d |
| Apr | 21°C | 8d | 28°C | 7d |
| May | 19°C | 7d | 29°C | 14d |
| Jun | 16°C | 8d | 29°C | 19d |
| Jul | 16°C | 6d | 30°C | 18d |
| Aug | 17°C | 5d | 30°C | 21d |
| Sep | 19°C | 6d | 29°C | 24d |
| Oct | 21°C | 8d | 28°C | 21d |
| Nov | 23°C | 9d | 27°C | 12d |
| Dec | 24°C | 9d | 26°C | 11d |
Sydney Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Cancun Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities