The weather in Aberdeen is influenced by the city's oceanic climate. Due to its location in Scotland's northeastern coast, Aberdeen has cool and cloudy summers, bringing little respite from the cold winter months. 

Winter is from December to February. Although wind and humidity can make it feel colder, the average winter temperature is 38°F (3°C). In June, summer arrives in Aberdeen, with July being the warmest month. The average temperature in summer is 57°F (14°C). Rarely, a warm spell may arrive, pushing the mercury above 68°F (20°C).

The sun only makes brief appearances during December and January, with average sunshine hours in these months amounting to one or two hours a day. Aberdeen's high latitude means that the length of days varies widely. In mid-winter, the sun sets before 4pm, while it can set as late as 10pm during the summer.

Rain is a seemingly ever-present companion in Aberdeen, so it's best to keep an umbrella on hand year-round.

 

 

What do expats say about weather patterns in Aberdeen?

"I guess the weather could be a negative: I’m accustomed to a dry and sunny climate, while here it’s dreary and damp much of the time. Aside from missing my family, I miss the true Canadian summers and winters, and most of all, I miss the snow. Here in Scotland, there’s no definitive change between the seasons; you always feel like it’s autumn or spring, aside from the occasional heat wave of a week when the temperature reaches 25 degrees Celsius." Read our interview with Canadian expat Danielle to learn more about life in rural Aberdeen. 

Further reading

►For info on public transport and driving in the city, see Getting Around in Aberdeen

Are you an expat living in Aberdeen?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Aberdeen. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.