You’re thinking about Houston in November. Maybe you’re coming for the Turkey Trot, or perhaps you just want to see if the rumors about "Second Summer" are true.
Look, I’ve lived through enough Gulf Coast autumns to tell you that Houston Texas weather November is a total wildcard. It’s the month where you can experience all four seasons in a single 24-hour cycle.
One morning you’re shivering in 45-degree air, and by lunchtime, you’re sweating through your shirt because it’s 82 degrees with 70% humidity. It’s chaotic. But honestly? It’s also the absolute best time to be here.
The "Goldilocks" window that actually exists
If you talk to any local, they’ll tell you that November is the reward we get for surviving the humid hellscape of August. The oppressive heat finally breaks.
Usually, the average high sits comfortably around 72°F, while the lows dip to about 50°F. But those are just averages. In reality, Houston is a battleground between cool Canadian fronts and warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico.
Why the humidity doesn't just "go away"
Most people assume that once the calendar hits November, the humidity vanishes. I wish.
While the "dew point" definitely drops—meaning the air feels crisper—Houston is still a swamp at heart. You’ll still have days where the air feels heavy. However, instead of feeling like a hot wet blanket, it feels more like a cool mist.
According to historical data from the National Weather Service, Houston actually sees some of its clearest skies in November. It’s statistically one of the sunniest months, which is why everyone is suddenly obsessed with patio dining at places like Discovery Green or the Heights.
The wardrobe struggle is real
Packing for Houston in November is a nightmare if you don't know the "Layering Rule."
Basically, you need to dress like an onion. You’ve got to be able to peel things off.
I’ve seen tourists show up in heavy wool coats because they saw a "low of 48" on their weather app. Big mistake. By 2:00 PM, they’re carrying that coat around like a burden while the sun beats down.
What you actually need to pack:
- A light denim jacket or windbreaker: Perfect for the mornings and those aggressive AC units that shops never turn down.
- Short-sleeve cotton tees: Wear these as your base. You’ll thank me when the sun comes out.
- An umbrella (non-negotiable): Houston gets about 4 inches of rain in November. It’s not the constant drizzle of London; it’s more like a sudden, aggressive downpour that lasts 20 minutes and then vanishes.
- Closed-toe shoes: Leave the flip-flops for the beach. The ground gets surprisingly chilly at night.
Is the hurricane threat still real?
Technically, hurricane season doesn't end until November 30th.
I know, it feels like it should be over. But the Gulf is still warm. While the risk of a major hurricane hitting Houston in November is statistically very low compared to the peak in August or September, we still watch the tropics.
Most "November weather" events in Houston are actually just strong cold fronts. These "Blue Northers" can drop the temperature by 30 degrees in an hour. You’ll see the clouds roll in, the wind kick up, and suddenly everyone is rushing to Academy to buy a new fleece.
The events that make the weather worth it
Because the weather is finally tolerable, the city explodes with stuff to do.
If you’re here in early November, you’ll catch the Día de los Muertos festivals. The air is usually perfect for outdoor altars and parades. Then you have the Nutcracker Market—a massive shopping event where thousands of people descend on NRG Center.
The Houston Turkey Trot is another big one. If you’re planning to run, keep an eye on the humidity. Even a "cool" 60-degree morning can feel sticky if the humidity is hovering near 90%.
Actionable tips for your visit
Don't let the "bipolar" weather ruin your trip.
First, download a hyper-local weather app like Space City Weather. They are the gold standard for Houstonians because they don't hype up storms for clicks; they just give you the straight facts about whether you need a jacket or a t-shirt.
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Second, if you’re planning outdoor activities like visiting the Houston Zoo or walking the trails at Buffalo Bayou Park, do them in the morning. Even in November, the Texas sun can be intense between noon and 4:00 PM.
Third, check the "RealFeel" temperature, not just the number. A 55-degree morning with wind and humidity feels way colder than a dry 45-degree morning in the desert.
Basically, just be ready for anything. Houston in November is beautiful, temperamental, and totally worth the extra space in your suitcase for a backup sweater.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
Check the 10-day forecast exactly 48 hours before you depart, as Houston’s patterns change rapidly. Focus your itinerary on outdoor spaces like the Museum District and the Houston Botanic Garden to take advantage of the peak fall foliage and milder afternoon temperatures.