Travel time: Year-round
Orlando is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, defined by its lack of true four seasons and a distinct divide between a hot, wet season (May to October) and a mild, dry season (November to April). Located in the center of the Florida peninsula, about 50 miles from both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Orlando’s weather is driven by its inland geography and the convergence of coastal sea breezes.
This is Orlando’s most intense period. High temperatures consistently hover in the low 90s°F (32-34°C), but the high humidity—often between 70% and 90%—creates a heat index that frequently exceeds 100°F (38°C). This season is defined by the "afternoon thunderstorm," a near-daily phenomenon typically occurring between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. These storms are triggered by sea breezes from both coasts meeting in the center of the state, resulting in heavy downpours and spectacular lightning. While intense, these storms are usually brief, lasting 30 to 60 minutes and providing a temporary cooling effect.
October marks a visible transition as the humidity begins to break. Highs drop into the mid-80s°F, and the frequency of afternoon storms decreases significantly. November is often considered one of the most pleasant months, with daytime highs in the upper 70s°F and crisp, clear nights. However, this period remains part of the Atlantic hurricane season, which peaks in September but can bring tropical activity through late November.
Winters are mild and predominantly dry, with daytime highs typically ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18-24°C). However, the region is susceptible to occasional cold fronts from the north. These can drop temperatures into the 40s°F or even the 30s°F for a few nights, occasionally resulting in morning frost. Rainfall is at its lowest during these months, making for consistent sunshine.
Early spring is often the driest time of year. Temperatures rise steadily from the upper 70s°F in March to the high 80s°F by May. Humidity levels are still relatively low compared to summer, but as May approaches, the first afternoon thunderstorms begin to reappear, signaling the return of the wet season.
Orlando experiences a significant Urban Heat Island effect. The vast expanses of asphalt and concrete in downtown and around the major theme park corridors can make these areas feel up to 8°F hotter than the surrounding rural or lake-heavy suburbs. Conversely, the numerous lakes in the region (over 100 in the greater Orlando area) can provide a localized cooling effect of a few degrees for properties along the water.
Locals have a unique relationship with the weather, often referred to as "acclimatizing." In winter, it is common to see residents in heavy coats when the temperature hits 60°F, while tourists remain in shorts. During the summer, locals adopt a "split-day" lifestyle: they are active outdoors in the early morning and late evening, treating the hours between noon and 4:00 PM as a period for indoor air-conditioned refuge. The humidity is often described not just as heat, but as a weight or a "thick" feeling in the air that makes physical exertion much more demanding than in drier climates.