Avg High
San Francisco in October
Verdict
In San Francisco, October has a distinct autumn feel. As the season moves along, the air is cooling down. You can usually expect a mild month that feels reliable day to day. Breezes can be part of the character, especially in exposed spots.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. A breeze can shift the feel of the day, especially later on.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
11h
What to expect
- Daytime feel - Mild days with a gentle drop-off once the sun goes down. It can feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
- Showers & dry spells - Changeable skies. Rain is usually intermittent rather than relentless. A light shower is possible, but not a daily feature.
- Midday sun - A bright month overall. A little sun care goes a long way, especially for longer walks. Shade breaks feel genuinely worthwhile.
- Wind feel - Often breezy, and umbrellas and loose items can struggle on gustier days. Sheltered streets can feel fine, but open areas feel very different.
October in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in San Francisco.
Hottest (avg)
#4 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#7 / 12
Daylight Hours
#8 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#11 / 12
Highest UV
#8 / 12
Most Humid
#11 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 11.2 hours
- UV index (max)
- 6
- Typical sun hours
- 06:19 – 17:30
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 4
- Cloud cover
- 39%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 74%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is October a good time to visit San Francisco?
Typical October days in San Francisco reach highs of 21°C (70°F) with nights around 12°C (54°F). It usually feels mild by day and cool after dark. Overall, October sits in the middle of the San Francisco climate range.
What are temperatures like in October?
Daytime temperatures in October typically peak near 21°C (70°F), while nights drop to around 12°C (54°F). Expect mild afternoons and cool evenings.
How much does it rain in October?
Rainfall in October averages 28 mm (1.1 in) across roughly 4 days. Overall it is a mostly dry time of year, so showers are usually brief rather than all-day downpours.
How many hours of daylight are there in October?
You can expect about 11 hours of daylight in October. Sunrise is typically around 06:19 and sunset near 17:30. Daylight is fairly typical, with enough time for sightseeing.
How strong is the sun in October?
UV levels are moderate (around 6); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.
Is it windy in October?
In October, average wind speeds are around 12 km/h (7 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 50 km/h (31 mph). On the ground, it is it often feels breezy, especially in more exposed spots or along the coast.