San Francisco in January
January weather, climate averages, and packing tips.
As winter continues, January brings, where conditions remain fairly consistent. Daytime highs average 14°C / 56°F, dropping to 7°C / 44°F at night.
The atmosphere is generally mild but frequently damp, typical of changeable seasons.
How it compares to the rest of the year in San Francisco.
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
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Sunshine
- Daylight
- 9.9 hours
- UV index (max)
- 4
- Typical sun hours
- 07:21 – 17:15
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 12
- Cloud cover
- 62%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 83%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is January a good time to visit San Francisco?
Typical January days in San Francisco reach highs of 14°C (57°F) with nights around 7°C (45°F). It usually feels cool by day and cold 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 14°C (57°F), while nights drop to around 7°C (45°F). Expect cool afternoons and cold evenings.
How much does it rain in January?
Rainfall in January averages 126 mm (5.0 in) across roughly 12 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in January?
You can expect about 10 hours of daylight in January. Sunrise is typically around 07:21 and sunset near 17:15. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.
How strong is the sun in January?
UV levels are moderate (around 4); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in January?
In January, average wind speeds are around 13 km/h (8 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 59 km/h (37 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.