Avg High
San Diego in January
Verdict
In San Diego, January has a distinct winter feel. As the season moves along, conditions remain fairly consistent. You can usually expect a mild month that feels manageable day to day.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Showers tend to come and go, rather than settle in all day.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
10h
What to expect
- Daytime feel - Mild days with a noticeable cool-down after sunset. It often feels a touch cooler in the shade.
- Wet weather - Showery bursts. You’ll get wet windows, then dry windows. It’s worth being prepared for occasional rain.
- Midday sun - A bright month overall. If you're out for hours, sunscreen is worth it. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
- Wind feel - Refreshing breezes, and exposed areas feel sharper when gusts roll through. A light outer layer helps when you’re in the shade.
January in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in San Diego.
Hottest (avg)
#10 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#2 / 12
Daylight Hours
#11 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#9 / 12
Highest UV
#11 / 12
Most Humid
#9 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 10.3 hours
- UV index (max)
- 5
- Typical sun hours
- 06:49 – 17:05
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 7
- Cloud cover
- 46%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 74%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit San Diego?
Typical January days in San Diego reach highs of 18°C (64°F) with nights around 9°C (48°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.
What are temperatures like in January?
Daytime temperatures in January typically peak near 18°C (64°F), while nights drop to around 9°C (48°F). Expect mild afternoons and cool evenings.
How much does it rain in January?
Rainfall in January averages 62 mm (2.4 in) across roughly 7 days. Overall it is a moderately wet time of year, so showers are usually brief rather than all-day downpours.
How many hours of daylight are there in January?
You can expect about 10 hours of daylight in January. Sunrise is typically around 06:49 and sunset near 17:05. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.
How strong is the sun in January?
UV levels are moderate (around 5); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in January?
In January, average wind speeds are around 8 km/h (5 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 37 km/h (23 mph). On the ground, it is a gentle to moderate breeze is common, but stronger winds are not frequent.