May · United States
Best time to visit Charleston in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Charleston in May
Average temperature 24°C, 90 mm of rain, about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 75% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
7.6/10
Ranked #4 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 24°C
- Rainfall
- 90 mm
- Humidity
- 75%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 30
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$ · Moderate Cost ($$)
May in Charleston scores 7.6/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - an above-average month (#4 of 12). Expect around 24°C, 90 mm of rain, and roughly 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Charleston's peninsula holds the French Quarter, Rainbow Row, and the Battery, where the Ashley and Cooper rivers meet the harbor.
May holds up well in Charleston — 4th best month
At 24°C (74°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
Budget for roughly 90 mm of rain this month — a flexible day or two helps — with about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 13.7 hours of daylight to work around it.
That is 7.6/10 on the same scale — 4th of 12 months, versus 8.8/10 for the best month here.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection, a packable rain layer.
Expect mid-season pricing, and crowds are moderate.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Charleston in May?
- In May, Charleston averages 24°C, 90 mm of rain, and about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 7.6/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Charleston?
- May earns a 7.6/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Charleston in May?
- Expect about 90 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 75% and there are about 30 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Charleston
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Charleston
Charleston, United States. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.