Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Boston, Massachusetts
43 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-0.3°C
Temperature Drop
100.8kPa
Air Pressure
99.5%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation43 meters
Everest Comparison0.5% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionMassachusetts
Highest PointBellevue Hill (101 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Beacon Hill
24 meterselevation
Great Blue Hill
193 meterselevation
Mission Hill
38 meterselevation
Parker Hill
61 meterselevation
Bunker Hill
19 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Boston occupies a peninsula and surrounding mainland at elevations ranging from sea level to 101 meters. The city's topography reflects extensive modification of original drumlins and fills of tidal flats. The geology features ancient bedrock of the Roxbury Conglomerate and Cambridge Argillite, while much of downtown sits on colonial and 19th-century fill. The harbor includes numerous islands representing drowned drumlins, while the Charles and Mystic Rivers have carved broad valleys through glacial deposits. Natural springs, most notably on Beacon Hill, influenced early settlement patterns.
Climate Impact
At elevations from sea level to 101 meters, Boston experiences a humid continental climate moderated by the Atlantic Ocean. The modest elevation changes create subtle temperature variations across the city, with summer highs reaching 28°C and winter lows dropping to -7°C. Annual precipitation averages 111cm, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The harbor location influences local weather patterns, particularly during nor'easters. The atmospheric pressure remains close to sea level across most of the city. The growing season extends roughly 180 days, with harbor areas experiencing later frosts than inland locations.
Historical Context
Boston's relationship with elevation shaped its development from colonial times, when Beacon Hill and other drumlins provided defensive positions. The massive filling of Back Bay and South End transformed the cityscape, raising elevations several meters above original tidelands. The construction of Beacon Hill required significant regrading, with soil used to fill Mill Pond. Modern Boston continues to adapt to its low elevation through sophisticated flood control systems and building codes that address both coastal flooding and unstable fill soils. Climate change adaptation increasingly focuses on protecting low-lying areas from storm surge and sea level rise.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Boston's Elevation
What is the elevation of Boston?
Boston has an elevation of 43 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Boston's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Boston (43 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Boston?
The highest point in Boston is Bellevue Hill (101 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
