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.

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Check the conditions for any month of the year.

• January
• February
• March
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• May
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• July
• August

• September
• October
• November
• December

For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Australia, check out our Sydney's climate page.

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%  

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

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

Historical weather 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.

Historical weather Temperatures Precipitation

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

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).

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

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 Australia, check out our Sydney's climate page.

More climate data for Sydney

Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp

See the full Sydney climate overview or explore weather in Australia.