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Los Angeles Weather in January

Los Angeles in January sees pleasant daytime temperatures of 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows of 9°C (48°F). Moderate rainfall is typical, with around 49 mm (1.9 in) for the month.

Rainfall in Los Angeles in January

Historically, approximately 5 days this month are expected to have rain, averaging 49 mm (1.9 in). Rainfall tends to arrive in short, intense showers this month. Rain days are few, but the showers can be surprisingly heavy.

Temperature in Los Angeles in January

The excellent temperature in Los Angeles in January makes it a solid month to visit, with 20°C (68°F) during the day and 9°C (48°F) at night. Even when the weather is stable, mornings and evenings can still feel distinctly cool. At 9°C (48°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Los Angeles in January

Enjoy a sunny month with about 224 hours of sunshine, the clear skies make Los Angeles even more beautiful.

Wind Speed in Los Angeles in January

Average wind speeds reach 3 m/s (6 knots) in January, creating light breezes that feel pleasant throughout the day. Some days are calmer, while others bring slightly more active breezes.

Average water temperature in January

With water at 14°C (57°F), it's on the cooler side. Keen swimmers won't be put off, but those who prefer warm water may find it less enjoyable.

If you favor pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, January is one of the best months to visit Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Temperature in January

Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Water Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Chance of Rain
17%
Precipitation
49 mm (1.9 in)
Rainy days
5 days
Humidity
57%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
224 hours
Percentage Sunshine
71%

Los Angeles Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Los Angeles - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Los Angeles typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, with lows around 10°C (50°F).

Average temperatures in January

Daily Historical Precipitation

51-year average (1976-2026)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in January

Historical weather records for Los Angeles in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Los Angeles spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Los Angeles historical weather extremes in January

Based on 49 years of weather observations in Los Angeles between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes.

  • The warmest day in January was on January 31, 2003, with a maximum of 32°C (90°F).
  • The lowest daytime temperature in January was 10°C (50°F), recorded on January 30, 1979.
  • The coldest night in January in Los Angeles was on January 17, 1987, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F).

Best Places in the United States of America in January

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in January →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Los Angeles in January

For Los Angeles in January, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Expect water temperatures of around 14°C (57°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Los Angeles in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Cycling
    10/10
  • Walking
    10/10
  • Camping
    5/10
  • Outdoor sports
    10/10

Los Angeles 3-Day Forecast

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.