Sydney Weather in January
Australia · Oceanic climate · Data averaged from 2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31 (5 years)
January in Sydney sees average temperatures ranging from a low of 19.1°C (66.4°F) to a high of 26.1°C (79.0°F), with a mean of 22.5°C (72.5°F). Compared to the annual average of 17.3°C (63.1°F), this month is 5.2°C warmer than the yearly norm. This is the hottest month of the year, reaching 26.1°C (79.0°F) on average. Precipitation averages 114.8mm, making it approximately 15.0mm wetter than the monthly average of 100.0mm. The city receives an average of 10.9 hours of sunshine per day during January, with relative humidity averaging 77.8%. Wind speeds reach an average maximum of 22.5 km/h. For travelers, this month offers a hottest month of the year experience in Sydney, with wetter-than-average conditions compared to the rest of the year.
The numbers show something travelers often miss: Sydney's 'winter' (June-August) averages 17°C — warmer than London's summer. I spent a July there expecting cold and instead got perfect hiking weather. The real challenge is the UV index in summer (December-February). The data is clear: if you're planning beach days, March-April give you warmth without the extreme UV. Christmas on the beach still feels wrong to me, but the locals love it.
January vs Adjacent Months
| Metric | December | January | February |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mean Temp | 21.0°C (69.8°F) | 22.5°C (72.5°F) | 22.1°C (71.8°F) |
| Rainfall | 83.1mm | 114.8mm | 150.6mm |
| Sunshine | 11.2 hrs | 10.9 hrs | 9.9 hrs |
| Humidity | 74.6% | 77.8% | 77.8% |
| Wind | 22.7 km/h | 22.5 km/h | 22.5 km/h |
| Rainy Days | 21.0 | 20.8 | 21.0 |
Seasonal Context
January falls in Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Winter is the coolest season with the shortest daylight hours. For travelers visiting Sydney 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 Sydney in January?
The average temperature in Sydney during January ranges from 19.1°C (66.4°F) to 26.1°C (79.0°F), with a mean of 22.5°C (72.5°F).
How much does it rain in Sydney in January?
Sydney receives an average of 114.8mm of precipitation in January, spread across approximately 20.8 rainy days.
What should I pack for Sydney in January?
Based on January weather data, pack layers including light jackets and t-shirts, plus an umbrella. Rain gear is essential — this month averages 114.8mm of precipitation.
Is January a good time to visit Sydney?
January is a month with challenging conditions. Plan activities carefully and stay hydrated.
Other Months for Sydney
Cities with Similar January Climate (Oceanic)
Data Source: Open-Meteo historical archive (2020-01-01 to 2024-12-31). Daily measurements aggregated into monthly climate normals. Coordinates: -33.87°, 151.21°. Timezone: Australia/Sydney. Last updated: 2026-07-30.