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Weather Comparison

Sydney vs Cancun

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Sydney: 19°CCancun: 29°C14,194 km apart

May Weather: Sydney vs Cancun

MetricSydneyCancunBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer19°C (66°F)29°C (84°F)Cancun
Average LowHigher is milder12°C (54°F)25°C (77°F)Cancun
Rain DaysFewer is drier7 days14 daysSydney
PrecipitationLess is drier46 mm91 mmSydney
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier8h/day12h/dayCancun
HumidityLower is more comfortable70%78%Sydney
UV IndexLower is safer29Sydney
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h19 km/hSydney

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Sydney edges ahead as the better destination in May. Sydney offers 8 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Cancun sees 12 sunshine hours and 14 rain days.

Sydney sits in the comfortable travel range at 19°C. Cancun runs hot at 29°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Sydney is the stronger choice in May. Cancun receives 4 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Sydney reaches an average high of 19°C (66°F) and drops to 12°C (54°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Cancun averages 29°C (84°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. There is a notable 10°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Sydney is in the Southern Hemisphere while Cancun is in the Northern Hemisphere. This means they experience opposite seasons, which explains any large temperature difference.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Sydney receives approximately 46 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during May. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Cancun sees 91 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Sydney the drier option by 7 rain days and 45 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Sydney averages 70% while Cancun sits at 78%. Cancun will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Sydney vs Cancun

Packing for Sydney in May

Highs of 19°C, lows of 12°C, 7 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Packing for Cancun in May

Highs of 29°C, lows of 25°C, 14 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Year-Round Comparison: Sydney vs Cancun

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthSydneyCancun
HighRainHighRain
Jan26°C9d25°C11d
Feb25°C10d26°C8d
Mar24°C10d27°C7d
Apr21°C8d28°C7d
May19°C7d29°C14d
Jun16°C8d29°C19d
Jul16°C6d30°C18d
Aug17°C5d30°C21d
Sep19°C6d29°C24d
Oct21°C8d28°C21d
Nov23°C9d27°C12d
Dec24°C9d26°C11d
19°

Sydney Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

29°

Cancun Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sydney warmer than Cancun in May?
No. In May, Cancun is warmer with an average high of 29°C (84°F) compared to Sydney at 19°C (66°F), a difference of 10°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Sydney or Cancun?
Cancun gets more rain in May with 14 rain days and 91 mm of precipitation. Sydney is the drier option with 7 rain days.
Is it better to visit Sydney or Cancun in May?
It depends on your preferences. Sydney averages 19°C and 8 hours of daily sunshine with 7 rain days. Cancun averages 29°C with 12 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Cancun. For drier weather, Sydney is the better pick.
How far apart are Sydney and Cancun?
Sydney and Cancun are approximately 14,194 km (8,814 miles) apart. Sydney is located in Australia (Oceania) while Cancun is in Mexico (North America).
What is the best month to visit Sydney and Cancun?
For Sydney, January tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 26°C. For Cancun, May is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Sydney and Cancun in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Sydney coordinates: -33.87°N, 151.21°E | Cancun coordinates: 21.16°N, -86.85°E