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California Weather in January

California in January sees low temperatures, with highs around 4°C (39°F) and overnight lows of -7°C (19°F). It's the driest month of the year, with very little snow/rainfall to worry about.

Rainfall in California in January

With the driest weather of the year, this month is a solid choice for exploring, even if you'll want to dress warmly. Typically, about 5 days will experience snow/rainfall, with an average of 39 mm (1.5 in) for the month. When rain does fall this month, it tends to come down hard. The low number of rain days makes each shower more significant.

Temperature in California in January

January in California brings typical temperatures with highs around 4°C (39°F) and lows of -7°C (19°F). January is known for being in the winter season. Time outdoors is usually more comfortable with proper winter clothing and protection from wind. With lows of -7°C (19°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated. It's often the coldest month of the year, a perfect time to cozy up indoors. Make sure to bring along suitable winter clothing.

Sunshine in California in January

The city usually sees around 163 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May, June, September and October typically offer the best weather for California.

California Temperature in January

Min Temperature
-7°C (19°F)
Max Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Chance of Rain
18%
Precipitation
39 mm (1.5 in)
Rainy days
5 days
Humidity
71% *
Sunshine
163 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
52% *
* Data from: Columbia, the United States of America (41 KM, 25 Miles).

California Weather by Month

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

Best Places in the United States of America in January

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America 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 California in January

We recommend to layer up for chilly conditions in California in January. You could start with thermal underwear or a good base layer to keep your core warm on the cooler days this month. Maybe also add a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a windproof jacket. Some rain is possible, so pack something to handle light showers. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.

What To Do in California in January

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

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    3/10
  • Walking
    3/10
  • Camping
    2/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

California 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.