January Weather in San Jose, Costa Rica

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in San Jose, Costa Rica heralds a mild and refreshing climate, perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant culture. With maximum temperatures peaking at 24°C (76°F) and minimums dipping to 11°C (53°F), visitors can expect an average of around 17°C (63°F) during this month. While precipitation is a notable aspect, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain spread over 11 days, the humidity remains at a comfortable 68%. This combination of warmth and occasional showers creates an ideal atmosphere for enjoying the lush landscapes and bustling life of San Jose. Enjoy the blend of sun and drizzle as you immerse yourself in the rich experiences that await in this captivating Central American capital!

January Temperature in San Jose

In January, San Jose, Costa Rica, welcomes the New Year with mild temperatures, averaging around 17°C (63°F). Early mornings can be cool, dipping to a refreshing 11°C (53°F), while daytime highs reach a comfortable 24°C (76°F), ideal for exploration. As the month progresses into February and March, temperatures remain fairly consistent, with averages slightly rising to 17-18°C (64-64°F) and maximums peaking at 25°C (78°F). This transitional period showcases a delightful climate, perfect for enjoying the city's vibrant culture and natural beauty. April ushers in a gradual increase in warmth, with lows at 13°C (56°F) and highs reaching 26°C (80°F), indicating the approach of the rainy season. Overall, January sets the tone for a pleasant climate, gradually evolving into warmer days as Costa Rica transitions towards its lush, green months.

January Weather in San Jose: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in San Jose, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In San Jose, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec636364666666666666656564
Data source: Temperature data for San Jose generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in San Jose

January in San Jose, Costa Rica, marks the beginning of the year with moderate precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 11 days. This rainfall sets the stage for the transition from the dry season to the wetter months ahead. By contrast, February sees a significant drop in rain, with only 43 mm (1.7 in), showing a clear trend toward drier conditions. As we move into April and May, precipitation soars, illustrating the onset of the rainy season, with May recording a staggering 425 mm (16.7 in) over 29 days. This spike highlights the dramatic shift in weather patterns, from the lighter showers of January to the intense rainfall characteristic of the mid-year months. Such trends emphasize the seasonal rhythm of San Jose’s climate, where the initial calm gives way to the lush vibrancy of the rainy season.

January Precipitation Trends in San Jose

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in San Jose, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In San Jose, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec934349113425341266304380517260156
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in San Jose

In January, San Jose, Costa Rica, experiences a comfortable humidity level of 68%, setting a tone for a pleasant start to the year. The humidity remains consistent at 68% in February before gently declining to 66% in March. As the month of April approaches, humidity slightly edges up to 67%, while May sees a minimal increase to 69%, heralding the start of the wet season. This shift culminates in June and July, where humidity levels soar to a steamy 84% and 85%, respectively. Following this peak, the moisture levels begin to stabilize, averaging around 80% through the last months of the year, with December dropping back to 72%. Overall, this trend reveals a distinct seasonal pattern where the early months offer relatively lower humidity, gradually escalating into the lush, humid conditions characteristic of the rainy season.

January Average Humidity in San Jose

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in San Jose, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in San Jose is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec68%68%66%67%69%84%85%82%81%80%80%73%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in San Jose

In January, San Jose, Costa Rica, experiences a notably high UV Index of 12, categorizing it as extreme. With a burn time of just 10 minutes, residents and visitors alike should take caution when spending time outdoors. This trend continues into February with the UV Index rising to 14, peaking at 16 in April. What’s remarkable is that throughout much of the year, from January to November, the UV Index remains predominantly in the extreme range, suggesting that sun protection is essential year-round. Even in December, when the index dips slightly to 11, the burn time remains a brisk 10 minutes. Whether you're exploring the city or enjoying the natural beauty, staying aware of these UV levels is crucial for your skin's health. For more detailed information on UV levels throughout the year, check out San Jose UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in San Jose for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for San Jose in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in San Jose typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec121415161414141414151211
Data source: San Jose January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in San Jose

In January, San Jose, Costa Rica, basks in 246 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a beautiful year ahead. As the months progress, the sun seems to shine brighter, with February offering 297 hours and March peaking at a stunning 329 hours. While April cools slightly to 303 hours, it is evident that the early months are perfect for sun-seekers. However, as we transition into the rainy season by May, sunshine dips to 248 hours, continuing a gradual decline through the summer months before stabilizing again in late autumn. Despite fluctuations, with December wrapping up the year with a respectable 289 hours, January remains a splendid start to enjoying the warm, radiant beauty of Costa Rica.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in San Jose: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours San Jose experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec246h297h329h303h248h244h229h236h249h234h247h289h
Data source: San Jose January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in San Jose During January

In San Jose, Costa Rica, January stands out with a 47% likelihood of sunny weather, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. This positive trend continues into February, where the chances dip slightly to 42%, but remains encouraging as the region transitions into early dry season. As we move into March, the prospects for sunshine drop to 40%. However, this is a noteworthy contrast to the subsequent months, where the likelihood plunges drastically: by April, it slips to 16%, and further declines through the rainy season in May and June, with chances hovering around 12-13%. January's sunny disposition not only promises a vibrant start to the year but also highlights how crucial it is to seize those sunlit days before the clouds roll in.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in San Jose

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in San Jose throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often San Jose experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec47%42%40%16%12%13%16%6%9%13%22%43%
Data source: San Jose January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in San Jose in January

In San Jose, Costa Rica, January greets residents with 11 hours of daylight, a trend that continues into February, offering a comfortable balance for outdoor activities and exploration. As the months progress into March, daylight extends to 12 hours, a duration that remains consistent through much of the rainy season, lasting until September. This stable daylight provides ample opportunity to enjoy the lush landscapes and vibrant culture. However, as October rolls in, the days begin to shorten again, returning to the 11-hour span seen at the start of the year. This rhythmic shift in daylight duration highlights the tropical climate's mildness, inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the beauty of San Jose throughout the year.

Average Daylight Hours in San Jose for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in San Jose throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec11h 36m11h 47m12h 3m12h 20m12h 34m12h 41m12h 37m12h 25m12h 9m11h 52m11h 39m11h 32m
Data source: San Jose daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in San Jose

In January, the winds in San Jose, Costa Rica, start the year with a gentle breeze, averaging 2.4 m/s (5 mph). This slight uptick in wind speed compared to the subsequent months sets the tone for the dry season, transitioning into February with a modest dip to 2.1 m/s. As the months progress into the heart of the dry season, wind speeds maintain a relatively steady pace, hovering around 2.3 m/s in March and dropping further to 1.7 m/s by April. The trend reveals a gradual decrease, with the lightest winds occurring in the mid-year months of June and August, where speeds fall to 1.3 m/s and 1.2 m/s respectively. However, the winds pick up again as the year draws to a close, with a slight resurgence noted in December at 2.2 m/s. Overall, January heralds a breezy start to the year, offering glimpses of both calm and invigorating moments amid Costa Rica's beautiful climate.

Average January Wind Speed in San Jose

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in San Jose, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.4 m/s2.12.31.71.61.31.61.21.31.11.82.2
Data source: San Jose January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in San Jose Compares to Other Months

Weather in San Jose varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in San Jose, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In comparing the weather between January and February, we notice that both months maintain a similar temperature range, with January seeing a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F) compared to February's minimum of 11°C (52°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). February slightly edges out January with a maximum temperature of 25°C (78°F), compared to January's maximum of 24°C (76°F). However, February has significantly lower precipitation at 43 mm (1.7 in) compared to January's 93 mm (3.7 in), making it a drier month despite having one extra day of recorded precipitation (12 days in February versus 11 in January). Both months share the same humidity level of 68%. For more detailed insights, visit San Jose weather in February.

In January, the weather is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures, with an average of 17°C (63°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F). The month experiences considerable rainfall, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, along with a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, March brings a hint of warmth with a higher average temperature of 18°C (64°F) and a maximum reaching the same 25°C (76°F). Precipitation is significantly reduced to 49 mm (1.9 in) across 14 days, and humidity is marginally lower at 66%. Overall, March offers a drier and slightly warmer climate compared to January. For more details, you can check San Jose weather in March.

When comparing the weather in January and April, we can see a subtle shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. In January, the temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month also experiences 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, alongside a humidity level of 68%.

In April, temperatures rise slightly, with minimums around 13°C (56°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (80°F), resulting in an average of 19°C (66°F). However, April is notably wetter, with a total precipitation of 113 mm (4.4 in) occurring over 23 days, while humidity remains relatively constant at 67%. For more detailed information, you can check San Jose weather in April.

In January, the weather in San Jose typically experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 24°C (76°F), averaging around 17°C (63°F). It sees a moderate amount of precipitation, averaging 93 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, and maintains a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, May is warmer with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). However, May is also substantially wetter, with total precipitation reaching 425 mm (16.7 in) over 29 days and a similar humidity level of 69%. For more detailed information, you can explore San Jose weather in May.

In January, the weather in San Jose is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). While the precipitation level is moderate at 93 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, the humidity stands at 68%. In contrast, June experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 26°C (78°F), averaging 19°C (67°F). However, it is significantly wetter, with precipitation surging to 341 mm (13.4 in) over 28 days and higher humidity at 84%. For a deeper dive into the weather specifics during this month, you can check out San Jose weather in June.

In January, the weather is relatively mild with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences moderate precipitation, totaling 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 11 days, and a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, July sees a slight increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F) and a maximum of 25°C (77°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). However, July is characterized by significantly higher rainfall, accumulating 266 mm (10.5 in) over 28 days, resulting in a more humid atmosphere at 85%. For more details about the weather in this month, you can check San Jose weather in July.

In January, the weather in San Jose features a comfortable range of temperatures with min values around 11°C (53°F) and max values reaching up to 24°C (76°F), alongside moderate precipitation of 93 mm (3.7 in) spread over 11 days, resulting in a humidity level of 68%. In contrast, August brings warmer temperatures that range from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F). However, it also experiences significantly higher rainfall, totaling 304 mm (12.0 in) over 28 days, which raises the humidity to 82%. For more detailed insights on the August weather, you can check San Jose weather in August.

In January, the weather is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). The month typically sees about 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, contributing to a comfortable humidity level of 68%. In contrast, September experiences slightly warmer temperatures, with minimums around 14°C (58°F) and maximums reaching 25°C (78°F), averaging at 19°C (66°F). However, it is also considerably wetter, with a substantial 379 mm (14.9 in) of rainfall over 29 days, resulting in higher humidity levels at 81%. This stark difference in weather patterns is highlighted in greater detail at San Jose weather in September.

January and October in San Jose present distinct weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F), while the month sees relatively moderate precipitation of 93 mm (3.7 in) over about 11 days and humidity around 68%. In contrast, October is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 25°C (78°F), averaging 19°C (66°F). However, it is significantly wetter, as the city experiences 517 mm (20.4 in) of rain over 29 days, resulting in increased humidity at 80%. For more details on the weather in October, visit San Jose weather in October.

In January, the weather tends to be slightly warmer with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (53°F) at night to a comfortable 24°C (76°F) during the day, while November is a bit cooler with temperatures varying from a minimum of 14°C (57°F) to a maximum of 24°C (75°F). Notably, November experiences significantly more rainfall, receiving 260 mm (10.3 in) over approximately 24 days, compared to January's 93 mm (3.7 in) over just 11 days. Humidity levels are also higher in November at 80%, compared to January's 68%. For more detailed insights on the weather in November, you can visit San Jose weather in November.

In January, the weather in San Jose features slightly cooler temperatures compared to December, with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), while December sees a minimum of 12°C (55°F) and an average of 18°C (64°F). Both months experience similar maximum temperatures around 24°C (76°F). However, January tends to be drier, with 93 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days, compared to December's higher rainfall of 156 mm (6.1 in) over 16 days. Additionally, January has a slightly lower humidity at 68% versus December's 72%. For more details on December's weather, you can check this link: San Jose weather in December.

Compare San Jose's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in San Jose

As we wrap up our look at January's weather in San Jose, it’s clear that this month offers a refreshing change compared to the rest of the year. With average temperatures hovering around a comfortable 17°C and a notable 93 mm of rainfall spread across 11 days, January is one of the wetter months, setting the stage for lush green landscapes. The humidity sits at a moderate 68%, giving the air a pleasant, crisp feel. While you may experience some rain, the vibrant atmosphere and mild temperatures make it an ideal time for both locals and visitors to explore the city. For those looking to dive deeper into San Jose's unique weather patterns, check out the full insight at San Jose Climate.