Last updated: February 24, 2025
Experience the delightful September weather in Santa Cruz, United States, where the temperatures soar with a maximum of 31°C (88°F), providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. With an average temperature of 16°C (62°F) and a refreshing minimum of 11°C (53°F), the climate strikes a balance between warmth and cool breezes. This month boasts a remarkably dry atmosphere, featuring only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation over 0 rainy days, allowing residents and visitors alike to enjoy plenty of sunshine. Coupled with a humidity level of 55%, September in Santa Cruz is an inviting escape, ideal for soaking in the coastal beauty and vibrant community.
In September, Santa Cruz experiences a delightful transition into autumn, with temperatures invitingly warm. The minimum temperature hovers around 11°C (53°F), providing a gentle start to the day, while the average reaches a comfortable 16°C (62°F). As the sun climbs higher, temperatures can soar to a peak of 31°C (88°F), marking it as one of the warmest months of the year. This notable warmth sets September apart from the preceding months, especially as ocean breezes often temper the heat, creating a pleasant atmosphere ideal for outdoor activities. With increased sunshine and a robust late-summer vibe, it's no wonder that this month remains a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
September in Santa Cruz marks the tail end of the dry summer months, as the city experiences a mere 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation, accompanied by no rainy days. This continuation of the dry trend following July and August highlights the region's Mediterranean climate, characterized by its prolonged summers. As the month transitions into October, a notable uptick in rainfall is anticipated, with October typically bringing 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain over two days. This seasonal shift not only rejuvenates the landscape but also prepares the ground for the more substantial rainfall that follows as the autumn months roll in, creating a beautiful contrast to the preceding dry spell.
In Santa Cruz, September marks a subtle transition in humidity levels, with an average of 55%. This represents a continuation of the downward trend initiated in late spring, where the humidity typically peaks at 84% in February and gradually declines to its lowest in the summer months. By the time September arrives, the air feels drier and more comfortable, especially in contrast to the much higher levels seen earlier in the year. As autumn approaches, you can expect a slight uptick in humidity in October, but September's balmy conditions provide a refreshing reprieve, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities amidst the stunning coastal scenery.
As summer transitions into fall, September in Santa Cruz sees a notable UV Index of 9, falling into the very high exposure category, which means you can burn in just 15 minutes if unprotected. This slight dip from August's peak UV Index of 10 indicates that while the days are still sun-drenched, caution is still paramount. The preceding months of extreme UV levels remind us of the necessity for sun safety, especially as outdoor activities remain popular in the beautiful coastal city. As you enjoy the milder weather, don’t forget to protect your skin—after all, the UV rays don’t take a vacation. Stay informed and safe this season with details at Santa Cruz UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
September in Santa Cruz shines brightly with 310 hours of glorious sunlight, marking a delightful transition from the summer months. This time of year reflects a natural ebb in sunshine, following the peak of 379 hours in July. While September holds onto the warmth and vibrancy of summer, it also hints at the approaching fall, as daylight begins to wane with October bringing a slight drop to 286 hours. Overall, the trend showcases a steady progression from the long, sun-drenched days of summer to the more tempered light of autumn, inviting residents and visitors alike to enjoy the lingering warmth of the season while it lasts.
In Santa Cruz, September boasts a notable 76% chance of sunny weather, aligning with the region's trend of increasing sunshine as summer progresses. This month, much like August, offers the perfect opportunity to bask in the warm sun, making it a popular time for outdoor activities and beach outings. As summer transitions to fall, the likelihood of clear skies remains high, providing residents and visitors alike with ample chances to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline. Comparing this to the earlier months of the year, we can see a steady rise in sunny days, which peaks during late summer and holds strong into early autumn, ensuring that September is a delightful time to soak up the sun in Santa Cruz.
As September arrives in Santa Cruz, the days gradually begin to shorten, with approximately 12 hours of daylight, marking a transition from the sun-drenched summer months. After experiencing the peak of 14 hours of daylight in June and July, the subtle decline continues into the fall, reflecting nature's gradual shift. This month stands at a midpoint, offering a pleasant balance of light as it bridges the flourishing brightness of summer with the encroaching dimness of autumn. As daylight wanes, the vibrant hues of early fall begin to emerge, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in the serene beauty of Santa Cruz during this transitional period.
As September arrives in Santa Cruz, the winds begin to whisper a change, with an average speed of 3.1 m/s (7 mph)—the calmest of the year. This slight decline is part of a broader trend as summer transitions into autumn, marked by a gradual decrease in wind speeds from May’s peak of 4.1 m/s (9 mph). The gentle breezes of September create inviting conditions for beachgoers and surfers alike, reminiscent of the mellow summer days just passed. With the winds continuing to slow into October and November, the serene atmosphere of Santa Cruz in September is a perfect time to embrace nature's tranquility before the seasonal shifts steer us towards winter.
The weather in Santa Cruz changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of September's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Santa Cruz and find detailed weather information for every month.
September and January present contrasting weather patterns. September enjoys a warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a mild 11°C (53°F) at night to a high of 31°C (88°F) during the day, and it boasts a remarkably dry atmosphere with virtually no precipitation. In stark contrast, January experiences cooler temperatures, peaking at 18°C (65°F) and dropping to a chilly 6°C (42°F) at night. This month is characterized by significant rainfall, averaging 148 mm (5.8 in) over about 9 days, accompanied by higher humidity levels at 82%. For more details on January weather, you can check Santa Cruz weather in January.
In September, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). With low precipitation of just 2 mm and no rainy days, the humidity averages at a comfortable 55%. In contrast, February presents a cooler and wetter climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 5°C (42°F) to a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 136 mm over approximately 7 days, and the humidity rises to 84%. For more details on February weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in February.
In comparing the weather of September and March, notable differences emerge. September typically enjoys warmer temperatures, with an average of 16°C (62°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F), contrasted with March's cooler average of 11°C (53°F) and maximum of 20°C (68°F). While September is characterized by minimal precipitation, averaging just 2 mm (0.1 in) over a dry month, March experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 110 mm (4.3 in) over 11 days. Additionally, the humidity is higher in March at 82%, compared to September's 55%, further contributing to the difference in climate between these two months. For more insights, check out Santa Cruz weather in March.
In September, the weather is noticeably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). The month is quite dry, with only 2 mm (0.1 in) of precipitation and no rainy days, accompanied by a moderate humidity level of 55%. In contrast, April experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 24°C (75°F). This month sees significantly more rainfall, with 42 mm (1.6 in) spread over 5 days, and higher humidity at 78%. For more details on April weather in Santa Cruz, visit Santa Cruz weather in April.
September and May present strikingly different weather patterns. In September, temperatures can range from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a warm maximum of 31°C (88°F), with an average of 16°C (62°F) and very little precipitation at just 2 mm (0.1 in) over no rainy days. The humidity level is relatively moderate at 55%. In contrast, May experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging at 13°C (55°F). This month sees more rainfall, totaling 23 mm (0.9 in) over approximately 3 days, and higher humidity at 71%. For a detailed look at May weather, visit Santa Cruz weather in May.
In comparing the weather of September and June, it’s clear that September tends to be warmer, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 31°C (88°F), compared to June's max of 29°C (84°F). While both months start with a minimum temperature around 11°C (51-53°F), September boasts a higher average temperature of 16°C (62°F) versus June's average of 14°C (58°F). Additionally, September experiences significantly less precipitation, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, while June sees 4 mm (0.2 in) over one day. Humidity levels are also lower in September at 55% compared to June's 64%. For those interested in details specific to June, you can check out Santa Cruz weather in June.
In comparing the weather between September and July, September showcases a wider temperature range, with minimums around 11°C (53°F) and maximums reaching up to 31°C (88°F), presenting average temperatures of 16°C (62°F). In contrast, July remains cooler, with minimums at 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of only 21°C (70°F), resulting in a lower average temperature of 15°C (59°F). Both months experience minimal precipitation, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days reported. Humidity levels are slightly higher in July at 58%, compared to 55% in September. For more details on July's weather, check out Santa Cruz weather in July.
In comparing the weather of September and August, September showcases a broader temperature range, with minimums around 11°C (53°F), averaging 16°C (62°F), and peaking at a warm 31°C (88°F). In contrast, August features slightly higher minimum temperatures at 12°C (54°F), a similar average of 16°C (61°F), but a significantly cooler maximum of 24°C (75°F). Both months experience minimal precipitation, with 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days reported. Humidity levels remain comparable, at 55% in September and 54% in August. For further details, you can check out Santa Cruz weather in August.
September typically showcases warmer days with maximum temperatures reaching up to 31°C (88°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F), along with low humidity at 55% and virtually no precipitation. In contrast, October brings slightly cooler temperatures, with a maximum of 29°C (84°F) and a minimum of 9°C (48°F), as well as increased humidity at 62% and a noticeable rise in precipitation, totaling 31 mm (1.2 in) over two days. For more details on the weather patterns, you can check out Santa Cruz weather in October.
In September, temperatures tend to be warmer with a minimum of 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), averaging around 16°C (62°F). This month experiences minimal precipitation, with just 2 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, along with a comfortable humidity level of 55%. In contrast, November brings cooler temperatures, dropping to a minimum of 6°C (44°F) and peaking at 23°C (73°F), with an average of 14°C (57°F). This month sees significantly more rainfall, totaling 61 mm (2.4 in) across approximately 5 rainy days, and higher humidity levels at 78%. For more specifics on November weather, see Santa Cruz weather in November.
In September, the weather is generally warm with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 11°C (53°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 16°C (62°F). The month sees very little precipitation, with only 2 mm recorded, resulting in dry conditions and a humidity level of 55%. In contrast, December brings much cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (45°F), an average of 12°C (53°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over 9 days, and a higher humidity level of 80%. For more details on what to expect, check out Santa Cruz weather in December.
As summer transitions to fall, September in Santa Cruz showcases a delightful blend of warmth and mildness. Unlike the sweltering heat of peak summer, temperatures remain comfortably moderate, with the refreshing sea breezes providing a pleasant respite. With minimal precipitation and zero rain days, this month is a perfect time to explore the outdoors, basking in the sunshine without the humid heaviness of other seasons. The average humidity hovers around a pleasant 55%, further enhancing the allure of outdoor activities. For more detailed insights into the region's weather patterns, visit Santa Cruz Climate.