Los Angeles Climate & Weather Averages

Climate Insights from Our Writers

“LA's reputation for perfect weather is mostly earned, but the microclimates will trick you. I've spent significant time studying the city's complex weather patterns, and what I've found is that Los Angeles isn't a single climate — it's a collection of microclimates that can differ dramatically within a few miles. The coast is cool and often foggy, the inland valleys can be scorching, and the mountains create their own weather systems. The data shows that the average temperature in downtown LA is 19°C, but this masks a range that goes from 14°C in January to 25°C in August. The real story is the 'June Gloom' — a persistent marine layer that can keep the coast overcast and cool while inland areas are sunny and warm. I've tracked this phenomenon and found that it typically burns off by midday, but in some years it can persist for weeks. The best time for a visit is September through October, when the marine layer retreats, the temperatures are at their warmest, and the city's outdoor culture is at its peak. The spring months of March through May are also excellent, with comfortable temperatures and the hills covered in green from the winter rains. The rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, with most of the city's 380mm annual precipitation falling between November and March. The summer months are almost completely dry, creating the fire conditions that have become an increasingly serious challenge for the region. For travelers, the key is understanding that LA's climate varies by location and season, and the best experience comes from matching your activities to the microclimate that suits them.”

— Climate & Travel Writer