May · United States
Best time to visit New Orleans in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in New Orleans in May
Average temperature 25°C, 167 mm of rain, about 28 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 76% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
5.8/10
Ranked #8 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 25°C
- Rainfall
- 167 mm
- Humidity
- 76%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 28
- Crowd Density
- Quiet / Uncrowded
- Average Expenses
- $ · Budget Friendly ($)
May in New Orleans scores 5.8/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - ranked #8 of 12. Expect around 25°C, 167 mm of rain, and roughly 28 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Jazz corners, Creole courtyards, and parade energy peak in milder January-March days.
May in New Orleans — middling scores, decent value
At 25°C (77°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
167 mm of rain makes this a wet month here, though with about 28 days with 6+ hours of sunshine there is still bright weather between the fronts.
That is 5.8/10 on the same scale — 8th of 12 months, versus 8.3/10 for the best month here.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
Budget for low-season pricing, and crowds are light for this destination.
If your dates are flexible, October is materially better in New Orleans — 2.5 points higher on the same scale.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in New Orleans in May?
- In May, New Orleans averages 25°C, 167 mm of rain, and about 28 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 5.8/10.
- Is May a good time to visit New Orleans?
- May earns a 5.8/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in New Orleans in May?
- Expect about 167 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 76% and there are about 28 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in New Orleans
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in New Orleans
New Orleans, United States. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.