What to expect in New Orleans in May
May is one of the best times to visit New Orleans. Expect 28° / 19°, manageable crowds at the big attractions and prices close to the yearly average.
New Orleans weather in May
Typical conditions in New Orleans during May, based on long-run climate normals rather than any single year. Treat it as a planning guide, not a forecast.
| Average high | 28°C 82°F |
|---|---|
| Average low | 19°C 66°F |
| Rainfall | Moderate 35/100 |
| Total rainfall | 110 mm4.3 in |
| Rainy days | 7 |
| Daylight | 13 h 40 min |
| How it feels | Warm and comfortable |
Average highs sit around 28°C with lows near 19°C. Rainfall is moderate; the odd shower is likely.
Crowds & demand
Crowd levels are Moderate for New Orleans — manageable crowds at the big attractions.
Prices & value
This month counts as shoulder season: prices close to the yearly average.
What to pack
Light layers for 28°C days and something with sleeves for evenings, which cool to around 19°C.
What it costs
Costs in May sit around the yearly average for New Orleans — neither a bargain nor a squeeze. Booking a few weeks out is usually enough. Compared with the most expensive month of the year, you are looking at roughly 37% less.
Who this month suits
- Travellers who want the most reliable weather
- Anyone travelling on a budget
- Visitors who want to catch a festival
Events & what’s on
Look out for New Orleans Jazz Fest while you’re there.
- New Orleans Jazz Fest — Two weekends of jazz, funk, and food fill the Fair Grounds Race Course.
New Orleans in May compared with nearby months
If your dates are flexible by a few weeks, this is what shifting them actually buys you.
| Month | Temp | Crowds | Price | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March | 22° / 12° | Moderate | $$ | 61 |
| April | 25° / 15° | High | $$ | 58 |
| May · This month | 28° / 19° | Moderate | $$ | 56 |
| June | 32° / 23° | Low | $ | 62 |
| July | 33° / 24° | Moderate | $ | 58 |
These months score higher for New Orleans on the same blend of weather, crowds and price. Same destination, better odds.
Or go somewhere else in May
If the destination is negotiable but the month is not, these places are at their best in May.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated October 2026
