Florida’s September Heat
The Hottest September Day on Record in Florida
Florida summers aren’t easy—September, though slightly cooler, still brings intense heat. Historic records show:
- Orlando: The hottest recorded September temperature is 103°F on September 8, 1921, followed by 100°F on September 6 and 7 of the same year
- Tampa: The September record high is 96°F, observed 13 times, most recently on September 5, 2020.
- Miami: While not quite breaking records, a known high is 97° F on September 8, 1987.
What to Expect in a Typical September
Even without record-breaking spikes, Florida stays toasty well into fall:
- In Orlando, average highs decline from 89°F to 86°F during September, while lows range from 75°F to 72°F.
- Statewide average highs linger near 87°F to 88°F, with September averages approximately 82.4°F.
- Miami’s coastal waters remain warm at 84°F, offering little relief.
- Monthly climate summary: Expect daytime highs around 87–90°F, nights in the high 70s, and humid conditions with an average of 17 rainy days in September across the state.
September 2025 Outlook: Still Searing Hot
- Recent trends: September 2025 is on track to be among the warmest on record in the Southeast, ranking as the second-hottest nationwide.
- The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts warmer-than-average fall temperatures in Florida, indicating that 80°F lows may stretch well into fall, prolonging heat impacts.
Why It Matters for Homeowners & Buyers
Understanding September heat is more than just trivia—it’s essential for real estate and lifestyle planning:
- Energy Use: Peak temperatures mean extended AC usage—expect higher utility costs.
- Home Buying Tips: Prioritize homes built for heat resilience—look for shade features, hurricane-rated screens, and energy-smart amenities.
- Well-Being: Sunscreen, hydration, and heat-smart landscapes (like shade trees) aren’t optional—they’re daily essentials.
Final Notes
- Orlando holds the all-time September high at 103°F.
- Tampa’s record is 96°F.
- Miami’s high: 97°F in 1987.
- Typical September: highs in the upper 80s to low 90s, nights in the 70s.
- 2025’s season: trending extremely hot and far from cooling off.
