San Francisco (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit San Francisco.
Climate overview of San Francisco
In winter the evening temperatures can drop, but almost never below freezing.
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.
Monthly Temperature in San Francisco
In San Francisco, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in September to a moderate 14°C (57°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 14°C (57°F) in September to around 7°C (45°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in San Francisco
San Francisco typically sees modest rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 469 mm (18 in). The climate in San Francisco shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in December, the wettest month, with an average of 112 mm (4.4 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month July offers drier and sunnier days, with around 0.4 mm (0.02 in) of rainfall over a single rainy day. For more details, please visit our San Francisco Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in San Francisco
For those who appreciate different seasons, San Francisco serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 10.8 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 5.3 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in San Francisco
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 12°C (54°F) in January to 14°C (57°F) in June.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in San Francisco by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in San Francisco.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 80%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 71%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in San Francisco
The average wind speed over the year ranges from 3 m/s (6 knots) to 7 m/s (14 knots). It is lower in January, November and December and higher in June and July. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit San Francisco
Frequently asked questions about the climate in San Francisco
What is the best time to visit San Francisco?
May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in San Francisco. In contrast, December tends to have less optimal conditions. San Francisco has a distinct dry season from May to October.
What temperatures can I expect in San Francisco?
Daytime highs range from 14°C (57°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 14°C (57°F).
How much rain does San Francisco get?
Annual rainfall is around 469 mm (18 in). December is the wettest month with 112 mm (4.4 in), while July is the driest with 0.4 mm (0.02 in).
How sunny is San Francisco?
San Francisco receives around 3,058 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 324 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 160 hours. Overall, San Francisco enjoys abundant sunshine.
San Francisco 3-Day Forecast
San Francisco (CA) 3-Day Forecast
San Francisco on the map
San Francisco is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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