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Los Angeles in January

Los Angeles Weather in January

🇺🇸 United States

19°C
High
7°C
Low
5
Rain Days
9h
Sunshine
70%
Humidity

North America › 🇺🇸 United States › Los Angeles

Updated: March 2026

Is January a Good Time to Visit Los Angeles?

7/10
Good

January is a good time to visit Los Angeles (7/10). With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 5 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 9th sunniest of the year in Los Angeles. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find January a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak July without sacrificing all the good weather. February offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Los Angeles's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.

vs December:19°C avg high

January sits at a particular moment in Los Angeles's seasonal arc. Temperatures average 19°C during the day, placing this month in a comfortable middle band, noticeably warmer than the depths of winter but without midsummer extremes. Against the seasonal backdrop, 5 rainy days and 9 sunshine hours per day help calibrate expectations for what actually awaits on the ground.

19°C

Avg High

7°C

Avg Low

5 days

Rain Days

9h

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Los Angeles in January

The 12°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 12 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 66°F average high, 45°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in January

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Los Angeles in January

Morning7°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon19°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening10°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Los Angeles in January means dressing for 19°C days and 7°C evenings. A light cotton tee with a casual overshirt works well at 19°C, the overshirt doubles as a layer for air-conditioned venues. Evenings drop 12°C to around 7°C, a notable shift that catches underprepared visitors off guard. Pack a dedicated evening layer. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.

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Local tip: Layers are more practical than a single heavy garment in Los Angeles. The day-to-evening temperature shift rewards packing a versatile mid-layer you can add or remove as conditions change.

Events in Los Angeles in January

January has no major festivals or public holidays in Los Angeles, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Los Angeles in January

Based on 19°C average highs and 5 rainy days

  • Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
  • Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Small day pack for city exploration
  • Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Los Angeles in January

  • Explore outdoor markets and street food stallsMid-morning (10am-12pm)At 19°C, the temperature is ideal for extended walking without overheating
  • Guided walking tour of the historic centreMorning or late afternoonComfortable temperatures allow several hours on foot without fatigue
  • Visit rooftop viewpoints and observation decksGolden hour (1 hour before sunset)Warm clear evenings provide exceptional visibility for panoramic photography
  • Day trip to the surrounding countryside or coastFull day (depart by 8am)January is reliably dry enough for rural day trips without weather risk
  • Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
  • Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
  • Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
  • Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningJanuary brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
  • Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmJanuary seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Los Angeles mild in January?

January in Los Angeles reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 19°C by day and 7°C overnight. The city sits at 34 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 12°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Los Angeles in January

In January, Los Angeles experiences average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). Expect around 5 rainy days and 9 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 12°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Los Angeles typically sees 5 rainy days in January, with total precipitation of around 81mm. This makes January one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Los Angeles typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than January.
Pack light layers, a light jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen for Los Angeles in January. Daytime temperatures of 19°C are pleasant, but the evening drop to 7°C means a jacket is essential if you plan to be out after dark. Rain is infrequent with only 5 wet days, so a light rain layer is optional. Comfortable walking shoes are a priority given the amount of ground most visitors cover.
Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Los Angeles. With 9 daily sunshine hours and only 5 rainy days, conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures averaging 19°C during the day are comfortable for long walks and outdoor dining. This is peak travel season, so booking accommodation in advance and arriving at popular attractions early in the morning helps avoid the busiest periods.
The average high temperature in Los Angeles in January is 19°C (66°F), and the average low is 7°C (45°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 13°C (55°F). The day-to-night range of 12°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Los Angeles is generally July. July offers the most sunshine at 14 hours per day and only 0 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 31°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around July gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
January is shoulder or low season in Los Angeles, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 9 sunshine hours and 5 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In January, Los Angeles suits a range of activities thanks to mild temperatures around 19°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 9 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

January ranks 9th sunniest of the year in Los Angeles, with an average 9 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are June, July, and August. August is the hottest month (32°C avg high); January is the coolest (19°C). From here, temperatures rise 1°C into February. Compared to last month (December: 19°C high, 5 rain days), January is similarly warm and equally dry. January sits in the middle of the annual sunshine ranking for Los Angeles, offering a reasonable balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Year-Round Climate

MonthHighLowRain DaysSunDetails
January19°C7°C59hView
February20°C8°C69hView
March21°C9°C511hView
April24°C10°C312hView
May25°C13°C213hView
June28°C15°C013hView
July31°C18°C014hView
August32°C19°C013hView
September31°C17°C112hView
October28°C14°C210hView
November23°C10°C29hView
December19°C7°C59hView

Other Months in Los Angeles

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan Your Trip to Los Angeles

Best Time to Visit Los AngelesLos Angeles vs Las Vegas in January

Data Sources for Los Angeles

Los Angeles on WikipediaOpen-Meteo Climate APINOAA National CentersUK Met OfficeWMOGeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.