Detroit Weather in January
During January, Detroit experiences very low daytime temperatures of 1°C (34°F) and cooler nights around -7°C (19°F). As the driest month of the year, and part of the winter season, snow/rainfall is at its lowest.
Rainfall in Detroit in January
Known for its least rainfall, this month is the driest of the year. It's a good time to be outdoors, even if the temperatures are a little cool. Snow/rain is expected on roughly 14 days, totalling around 59 mm (2.3 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 Detroit in January
January in Detroit brings very low temperatures, with highs of 1°C (34°F) and nights around -7°C (19°F). The month of January belongs to the winter season. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. At -7°C (19°F) overnight, frost and ice are likely outside. Indoors, consider packing an extra blanket if you're unsure about the heating. Since it's the coldest month of the year, you'll want to bundle up with extra layers and winter clothing.
Sunshine in Detroit in January
The month experiences a moderate amount of sunlight, with 117 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 Detroit. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Detroit's climate page.
Detroit Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-7°C (19°F)
Max Temperature
1°C (34°F)
Chance of Rain
47%
Precipitation
59 mm (2.3 in)
Rainy days
14 days
Humidity
74%
Sunshine
117 hours
Percentage Sunshine
40%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Detroit typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 1°C (34°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -9°C (16°F) to -5°C (23°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 for Detroit in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Detroit spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Detroit historical weather extremes in January
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Detroit from 1976 through 2025.
- The warmest day in January was on January 7, 2008, with a maximum of 16°C (61°F).
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
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What to Wear in Detroit 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 Detroit in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Detroit's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Detroit climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
