Sydney
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Sydney Weather in January

With daytime temperatures of 26°C (79°F) and nighttime lows of 20°C (68°F), January in Sydney brings high temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 81 mm (3.2 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in Sydney in January

The climate data from previous years indicates about 12 days of rain, averaging 81 mm (3.2 in) for the month. The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.

Temperature in Sydney in January

The excellent temperature in Sydney in January makes it a solid month to visit, with 26°C (79°F) during the day and 20°C (68°F) at night. This kind of day-to-night contrast is typical for this time of year. With overnight lows of 20°C (68°F), evenings stay pleasantly warm. On average, it is the warmest month of the year.

Sunshine in Sydney in January

There are approximately 233 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.

Wind Speed in Sydney in January

Wind speeds average 4 m/s (8 knots) during January. At this speed, expect moderate winds that can raise dust and move small branches. Since this is an average, some days have gentle light winds while others experience stronger breezes that are quite noticeable.

Average water temperature in January

With water at 21°C (70°F), conditions are good for swimming and other water activities. You won't need a wetsuit and most people find it very comfortable.

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

Sydney Temperature in January

Min Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Max Temperature
26°C (79°F)
Water Temperature
21°C (70°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
81 mm (3.2 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
61%
Windspeed
4 m/s (8 knots)
Sunshine
233 hours
Percentage Sunshine
53%

Sydney Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Sydney typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 26°C (79°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows around 20°C (68°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 Sydney in January

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

Sydney historical weather extremes in January

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

  • On January 8, 1983, temperatures climbed to 42°C (108°F), marking the warmest January day on record.
  • The lowest daytime temperature in January was 19°C (66°F), recorded on January 2, 2000.
  • The coldest night in January in Sydney was on January 17, 1983, with a minimum of 12°C (54°F).

Best Places in Australia in January

Find out more about the weather in Australia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Australia 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 Sydney in January

Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in January. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. With water temperatures around 21°C (70°F), swimming conditions are excellent. Pack your swimsuit, goggles, and maybe some water shoes. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Sydney in January

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

  • Swimming
    9/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    8/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Sydney 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.