Weather in New Orleans 🇺🇸
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
September
Avg Temp
29°C
Rain Days
13 days
Sun Hours
10 hrs
Humidity
70%
North America › 🇺🇸 United States › New Orleans
Updated: March 2026
Is September a Good Time to Visit New Orleans?
5/10
Fair
September is a fair time to visit New Orleans (5/10). With 10 daily sunshine hours and only 13 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 6th sunniest of the year in New Orleans. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find September a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak May without sacrificing all the good weather. October offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: New Orleans's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
vs August:31°C avg high
Visiting New Orleans in September means warm daytime temperatures peaking at 29°C. Factor in 13 potential rainy days and 70% average humidity when planning your daily activities.
29°C
84°F
Avg High
24°C
75°F
Avg Low
13 days
128 mm total
Rain Days
10h
per day avg
Sunshine
70%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in New Orleans in September
The narrow 5°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures, characteristic of coastal cities with maritime moderation, means a single mid-layer works across the whole day. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. UV index averages 6 this month, classed as moderate. Sunscreen is a sensible precaution for extended outdoor time, particularly at midday. Wind averages 17 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 84°F average high, 75°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in New Orleans in September
Morning24°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon29°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening27°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for New Orleans in September means dressing for 29°C days and 24°C evenings. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt with loose-fit trousers or a sundress handles the 29°C daytime heat. Evening temperatures settle at 24°C, a modest 5°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. For footwear, breathable walking sandals work for casual exploration, but closed-toe trainers are better for uneven surfaces in the historic centre. With 13 rain days expected, a compact travel umbrella is worth the bag space. A waterproof jacket is better than an umbrella if you plan full-day outdoor routes.
Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in New Orleans. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.
Events in New Orleans in September
September has no major festivals or public holidays in New Orleans, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for New Orleans in September
Based on 29°C average highs and 13 rainy days
- Light layers for morning and evening
- Breathable T-shirts and comfortable trousers
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Quick-dry travel towel
- Anti-chafe balm for long walking days
- Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics for active days
- Compact folding umbrella
- Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
- Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
- SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in New Orleans in September
- Early morning walk through New Orleans's historic market districtBest before 9amTemperatures are still manageable at 25°C before the midday heat builds
- Open-air rooftop dining at sunsetFrom 6pm onwardsThe 29°C daytime heat drops noticeably after sunset, making al fresco dining comfortable
- Waterfront promenade or harbour walkEarly morning or after 5pmSea breezes cut through the humidity, making coastal routes the most pleasant in heat
- Guided cycling tour of the old quarterFirst tour of the day (7-9am)The low-traffic window before tourist crowds and the cooler morning air make this the prime riding slot
- Spend a morning in the national or city art museumOpens at 10am; arrive earlyWith 13 rain days expected, having a full-day indoor plan is practical insurance
- Cooking class focused on regional cuisineHalf-day sessions run 10am-1pm or 3-6pmIndoor activity that fills a rainy half-day with genuine cultural content
- Visit covered historical sites: cathedral, palace, or bazaarAny time; most crowded middayRoofed monuments and covered markets provide exploration without weather exposure
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningSeptember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Seek out chilled local specialities: cold-brew tea, ice desserts, or chilled seafood at street-level stallsAny time; most atmospheric in evening marketsHot-weather street food culture peaks in September, with vendors setting up specifically for warm evenings
Why is New Orleans warm in September?
September brings the first meaningful shift toward cooler conditions in New Orleans, as the sun angle drops and day length shortens. Temperatures averaging 29°C by day and 24°C overnight are still comfortable by most standards, but the trend is clearly downward. At 30 degrees north latitude, autumn light has a particular quality: lower in the sky and warmer in tone, it gives the city a photogenic quality quite different from summer. Conditions remain excellent for outdoor activity, and crowds thin compared to the summer peak. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
New Orleans in September
In September, New Orleans experiences average highs of 29°C (84°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). Expect around 13 rainy days and 10 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 5°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an overshirt or cardigan handles the cooler evenings. UV index averages 6, so sun protection is advisable on clear days.
New Orleans typically sees 13 rainy days in September, with total precipitation of around 128mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in New Orleans typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than September.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing (linen or cotton), a wide-brim sun hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle for New Orleans in September. The 29°C daytime heat demands sun protection during midday hours, typically 11am to 4pm. A compact travel umbrella is also worth packing, as 13 rainy days means afternoon showers are a real possibility. Quick-dry synthetic fabrics are preferable to cotton in 70% humidity.
September is a reasonable time to visit New Orleans. Expect 13 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 29°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 10 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in New Orleans in September is 29°C (84°F), and the average low is 24°C (75°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 27°C (80°F). The day-to-night range of 5°C is narrow, typical of coastal or maritime cities. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit New Orleans is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 12 hours per day and only 9 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
September is shoulder or low season in New Orleans, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 10 sunshine hours and 13 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In September, New Orleans suits a range of activities thanks to warm temperatures of 29°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 10 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
September ranks 6th sunniest of the year in New Orleans, with an average 10 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are November, October, and February. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (16°C). From here, temperatures fall 4°C into October. Compared to last month (August: 31°C high, 18 rain days), September is cooler and drier. September sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for New Orleans, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16°C | 9°C | 10 | 7h | View |
| February | 18°C | 11°C | 9 | 8h | View |
| March | 21°C | 14°C | 10 | 9h | View |
| April | 24°C | 17°C | 9 | 10h | View |
| May | 28°C | 21°C | 9 | 12h | View |
| June | 30°C | 24°C | 16 | 12h | View |
| July | 31°C | 25°C | 18 | 11h | View |
| August | 31°C | 25°C | 18 | 11h | View |
| September | 29°C | 24°C | 13 | 10h | View |
| October | 25°C | 19°C | 8 | 10h | View |
| November | 21°C | 14°C | 7 | 9h | View |
| December | 17°C | 11°C | 10 | 7h | View |
January
10 rain days, 7h sun
16°9°
February
9 rain days, 8h sun
18°11°
March
10 rain days, 9h sun
21°14°
April
9 rain days, 10h sun
24°17°
May
9 rain days, 12h sun
28°21°
June
16 rain days, 12h sun
30°24°
July
18 rain days, 11h sun
31°25°
August
18 rain days, 11h sun
31°25°
September
13 rain days, 10h sun
29°24°
October
8 rain days, 10h sun
25°19°
November
7 rain days, 9h sun
21°14°
December
10 rain days, 7h sun
17°11°
Other Months in New Orleans
Plan Your Trip to New Orleans
Data Sources for New Orleans
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.