Los Angeles Weather in January
United States · Mediterranean climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Los Angeles sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 7.6°C (45.7°F) to a high of 18.6°C (65.5°F), with a mean of 12.4°C (54.3°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.8°C (64.0°F), this month is 5.4°C cooler than the yearly norm. This is the coldest month of the year, with average lows of 7.6°C (45.7°F). Precipitation averages 83.2mm, making it approximately 43.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 40.0mm. The city receives an average of 8.5 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 65.7%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 13.9 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a coldest month of the year experience in Los Angeles, with wetter-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
LA's reputation for perfect weather is mostly earned — but the microclimates will trick you. I packed for Santa Monica's 22°C and froze in Pacific Palisades' morning fog. September is the secret heat wave: 30°C inland, smoggy, oppressive. Pack layers even in summer — the marine layer keeps the coast 5°C cooler than 5km inland. May and October are my favorite windows: clear, 23°C, less traffic. Skip July-August if you're beach-phobic; the crowds at Venice are intense. December-March is underrated — 18°C, empty hiking trails, occasional dramatic rain.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 13.3°C (55.9°F) | 12.4°C (54.3°F) | 13.3°C (55.9°F) |
| Rainfall | 103.3mm | 83.2mm | 95.9mm |
| Sunshine | 7.8 hrs | 8.5 hrs | 9.1 hrs |
| Humidity | 60.6% | 65.7% | 56.8% |
| Wind | 12.6 km/h | 13.9 km/h | 17.2 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 7.4 | 6.2 | 7.0 |
| Snowfall | 0.0 cm | 0.0 cm | 0.2 cm |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Los Angeles in January, the data indicates mixed conditions based on the combination of temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average temperature in Los Angeles in January?
The average temperature in Los Angeles during January ranges from 7.6°C (45.7°F) to 18.6°C (65.5°F), with a mean of 12.4°C (54.3°F).
How much does it rain in Los Angeles in January?
Los Angeles receives an average of 83.2mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 6.2 rainy days.
What should I pack for Los Angeles in January?
Based on January weather data, pack warm layers, a medium jacket, and waterproof outerwear.
Is January a good time to visit Los Angeles?
January is a cooler month, suitable for travelers who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Pack warm layers and enjoy indoor attractions.
Other Months for Los Angeles
Cities with Similar January Climate (Mediterranean)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: 34.05°, -118.24°. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles. Last updated: 2026-07-30.