Oakland (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Oakland.
Climate overview of Oakland
Oakland, California, United States of America, has a moderate seasonal temperature range, with September reaching 24°C (75°F) and December cooling to 15°C (59°F).
With around 516 mm (20 in) of annual rainfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. December is the wettest month and August the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from May to October. The sunniest month is May, with 10.8 hours of sunshine per day on average.
Oakland Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Oakland - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Oakland
In Oakland, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 24°C (75°F) in September to a moderate 15°C (59°F) in the coolest month, December.
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 Oakland
Generally, Oakland experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 516 mm (20 in) yearly. The climate in Oakland shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in December, the wettest month, with an average of 116 mm (4.6 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month August offers drier and sunnier days, with around 0 mm (0 in) of rainfall over 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Oakland 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 Oakland
For those who appreciate different seasons, Oakland 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 Oakland
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 Oakland by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Oakland.
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 Oakland
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 Oakland
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May, June, July, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: June, July, August, September and October
- Most sunshine: April, May, June and July
- Fewest rainy days: June, July, August and September
- Wettest months: January, February, March, April, November and December, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to October
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Oakland
What is the best time to visit Oakland?
May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Oakland. In contrast, December tends to have less optimal conditions. Oakland has a distinct dry season from May to October.
What temperatures can I expect in Oakland?
Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in December to 24°C (75°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 14°C (57°F).
How much rain does Oakland get?
Annual rainfall is around 516 mm (20 in). December is the wettest month with 116 mm (4.6 in), while August is the driest with 0 mm (0 in).
How sunny is Oakland?
Oakland 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, Oakland enjoys abundant sunshine.
Oakland 3-Day Forecast
Oakland (CA) 3-Day Forecast
Oakland on the map
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