Cincinnati
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Cincinnati Weather in January

Cincinnati in January averages 4°C (39°F) during the day and -5°C (23°F) at night. This is part of the winter season, and quite a bit of snow/rainfall is expected this month.

Rainfall in Cincinnati in January

You can expect snow/rain on roughly 12 days based on historical data, averaging 75 mm (3 in) for the month. Expect a fairly normal spread of rainfall this month, with no particular pattern of very heavy or very persistent showers.

Temperature in Cincinnati in January

In January, Cincinnati gets low temperatures, with highs of 4°C (39°F). Nights cool to around -5°C (23°F). January is part of winter. Cold conditions tend to persist from morning through evening, so be prepared for winter weather. Nights are well below freezing at -5°C (23°F). An extra blanket is a good idea if you feel the cold, especially in older or less well-heated accommodation. Expect the coldest temperatures of the year this month. Make sure you have enough winter clothing to stay warm.

Sunshine in Cincinnati in January

The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 121 hours of sunshine. This provides a nice balance between sunshine and clouds.

If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Cincinnati. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.

Cincinnati Temperature in January

Min Temperature
-5°C (23°F)
Max Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Chance of Rain
40%
Precipitation
75 mm (3 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
72%
Sunshine
121 hours
Percentage Sunshine
40%

Cincinnati Weather by Month

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

Daily Historical Temperatures

51-year average (1976-2026)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Cincinnati typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 4°C (39°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -7°C (19°F) to -2°C (28°F).

Average temperatures in January

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

Historical weather records for Cincinnati in January

Browse day-by-day weather records for Cincinnati spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Cincinnati historical weather extremes in January

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Cincinnati from 1976 through 2025.

  • The hottest January day on record in Cincinnati reached 21°C (70°F) (January 22, 1999).

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 Cincinnati in January

Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.

What To Do in Cincinnati 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
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

Cincinnati 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.