Tempe in September
Good time to visit
Still too hot for most visitors but ASU students return, bringing some life back to town. The promise of cooler weather feels tantalizingly close.
Weather
September stays hot with highs around 39°C and lows near 24°C. Late monsoon storms still possible with 3-4 rainy days. The heat feels relentless but slightly more bearable than peak summer.
39°C high24°C low4 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$115/day average
Events & Festivals
- •ASU football season begins
September Tips
- •Football tailgating requires serious heat strategies
- •Pools remain essential through the month
- •Late monsoon storms can disrupt outdoor plans
All Months
October through April is when Tempe shines. Daytime temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s, perfect for hiking Tempe Butte or lounging by the lake. December and January bring actual cool weather - sometimes dipping into the 40s at night - which feels amazing after months of triple digits.
Here's what locals know: February and March are peak season for a reason. The weather is absolutely perfect, but hotel rates spike and everything gets crowded. If you can swing it, visit in November or early December for great weather and better deals.
Summer is brutal. We're talking 115°F+ from June through August. Hotel rates drop dramatically, but you'll be sprinting between air-conditioned buildings. Only consider summer if you're here for specific events or you really want to experience what desert heat actually feels like.
ASU's academic calendar affects everything. Move-in week in late August brings chaos and higher prices. Spring break in March empties the town of students but fills it with visitors. Football season (September through November) means weekend crowds and inflated accommodation costs.
Tempe Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
6/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
5/10
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