San Francisco Weather in January

San Francisco in January averages 14°C (57°F) during the day and 7°C (45°F) at night. Keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is expected this month.

Rainfall in San Francisco in January

You can typically expect 9 days of rain this month, averaging around 70 mm (2.8 in). Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.

Temperature in San Francisco in January

Temperatures in San Francisco in January top out at 14°C (57°F) and drop to 7°C (45°F) overnight. The difference between afternoon and evening temperatures is usually noticeable. With overnight lows of 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.

Sunshine in San Francisco in January

The area experiences a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 186 hours of sunlight expected. This means a decent mix of sun and overcast.

Wind Speed in San Francisco 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 temperatures around 12°C (54°F), swimming isn't really an option for most visitors. The cold sets in quickly and a wetsuit won't fully solve it.

If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the best circumstances for San Francisco.

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.

San Francisco Temperature in January

Min Temperature 7°C (45°F)  

Max Temperature 14°C (57°F)  

Water Temperature 12°C (54°F)  

Chance of Rain 30%  

Precipitation 70 mm (2.8 in)  

Rainy days 9 days  

Humidity 80%  

Windspeed 3 m/s (6 knots)  

Sunshine 186 hours  

Percentage Sunshine 61%  

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in San Francisco typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 14°C (57°F). Nights are cold, with lows around 7°C (45°F).

Average temperatures in January

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

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

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

Historical weather for San Francisco in January

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

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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‹ January February March April May June July August September October November December ›

San Francisco historical weather extremes in January

Based on weather observations in San Francisco between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during January.

• On January 18, 2021, temperatures climbed to 23°C (73°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
• On January 20, 1982, San Francisco saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at 6°C (43°F).
• The coldest night in January in San Francisco was on January 29, 1979, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F).

What to Wear in San Francisco in January

The weather can be unpredictable in January, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. Expect water temperatures of around 12°C (54°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Bring sunglasses since you'll have some sunny periods throughout the month

What To Do in San Francisco in January

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

Swimming

5/10

Cycling

6/10

Walking

6/10

Camping

4/10

Outdoor sports

9/10

Select a Month

Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
• April

• May
• June
• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.

More climate data for San Francisco

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full San Francisco climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.