San Francisco Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit San Francisco.
Climate overview of San Francisco
Temperatures in San Francisco, Spain, vary greatly throughout the year. August is the hottest month at 29°C (84°F), while January is the coldest at 16°C (61°F).
The city tends toward dry conditions, with around 482 mm (19 in) of rainfall per year. It does, however, have a distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters. The most sunshine falls in July, with an average of 11.6 hours of daily sunshine.
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
The climate in San Francisco is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in August to a moderate 16°C (61°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 22°C (72°F) in August to around 10°C (50°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in San Francisco
San Francisco maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, recording average annual precipitation of 482 mm (19 in). The climate in San Francisco shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect moderate rainfall in December, the wettest month, with an average of 74 mm (2.9 in) of precipitation over 13 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month July offers drier and sunnier days, with around 1.5 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall over 2 rainy days. 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 July with an average of 11.6 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 5.5 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 16°C (61°F) in February to 24°C (75°F) in August.
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 November, reaching 72%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 59%. 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 mean wind speed varies between 1 m/s (2 knots) and 2 m/s (4 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in June, July, August, October and November and highest during January, February, March, April, May, September and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit San Francisco
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: April, May, June, July, August, September and October
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewest rainy days: July, August and September
- Best for swimming: June, July, August, September and October.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in San Francisco
What is the best time to visit San Francisco?
April, May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in San Francisco. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. San Francisco has a distinct dry season from May to September, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in San Francisco?
Daytime highs range from 16°C (61°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 10°C (50°F) to 22°C (72°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does San Francisco get?
Annual rainfall is around 482 mm (19 in). December is the wettest month with 74 mm (2.9 in), while July is the driest with 1.5 mm (0.1 in).
How sunny is San Francisco?
San Francisco receives around 2,919 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 348 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 164 hours. Overall, San Francisco enjoys abundant sunshine.
San Francisco 3-Day Forecast
San Francisco on the map
San Francisco is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Seville
36°C (97°F) Madrid34°C (93°F) Valencia31°C (88°F) Málaga29°C (84°F) Benidorm29°C (84°F) Calpe
30°C (86°F) Marbella28°C (82°F) Barcelona28°C (82°F) 
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