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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.
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.
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in San Francisco - and find the best time to visit.
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).
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
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.
Based on weather observations in San Francisco between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during 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 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).
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
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full San Francisco climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
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