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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.

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%

San Francisco Weather by Month

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

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

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 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.

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).

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 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

San Francisco 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.