Weather · Hub guide
Los Angeles Weather by Month: Temperatures, Rain and Best Time to Visit
Los Angeles has mild weather most of the year, but the coast and inland areas can feel very different on the same day. This guide uses NOAA climate normals to show what each month is usually like.
Los Angeles weather at a glance
- Warmest months August and September, with Downtown highs around 83 to 84°F
- Coolest months December and January, with Downtown highs around 67 to 68°F
- Rainy season Mostly November through March; February is the wettest month
- Driest months June through September, with almost no rain
- Coastal pattern Morning clouds in May and June, often called May Gray and June Gloom
- Forecasts National Weather Service Los Angeles office
In this guide
The numbers below are 1991 to 2020 climate normals from NOAA for two stations: Downtown Los Angeles and LAX. Downtown is a few miles inland. LAX sits near the ocean and is a good guide to Santa Monica, Venice and the beach cities. The San Fernando Valley and other inland areas run warmer in summer than both.
For the current forecast, use the National Weather Service Los Angeles office. For more planning, see our Los Angeles visitors guide.
Monthly averages
| Month | Downtown high / low (°F) | Downtown rain (in) | LAX high / low (°F) | LAX rain (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 68.0 / 48.9 | 3.29 | 66.3 / 49.4 | 2.86 |
| February | 68.0 / 50.0 | 3.64 | 65.6 / 50.1 | 2.99 |
| March | 69.9 / 52.4 | 2.23 | 66.1 / 52.2 | 1.73 |
| April | 72.4 / 54.8 | 0.69 | 68.1 / 54.2 | 0.60 |
| May | 73.7 / 58.1 | 0.32 | 69.5 / 57.6 | 0.28 |
| June | 77.2 / 61.4 | 0.09 | 72.0 / 60.9 | 0.08 |
| July | 82.0 / 64.7 | 0.02 | 75.1 / 64.0 | 0.04 |
| August | 84.0 / 65.4 | 0.00 | 76.7 / 64.8 | 0.00 |
| September | 83.0 / 64.2 | 0.13 | 76.5 / 63.7 | 0.11 |
| October | 78.6 / 59.9 | 0.58 | 74.4 / 59.8 | 0.49 |
| November | 72.9 / 53.1 | 0.78 | 70.9 / 53.7 | 0.82 |
| December | 67.4 / 48.2 | 2.48 | 66.1 / 49.1 | 2.23 |
Source: NOAA NCEI 1991 to 2020 climate normals for Los Angeles Downtown (USC) and Los Angeles International Airport.
Winter: December to February
Winter brings the coolest days and most of the year’s rain. Downtown highs average around 67 to 68°F, and nights drop to the upper 40s. February averages 3.64 inches of rain Downtown, the most of any month. Rain usually comes in a few storms rather than steady drizzle, so many winter days are clear and sunny. Clear days after a storm often bring snow views on the San Gabriel Mountains.
After heavy rain, county health officials advise avoiding ocean water for 72 hours. See our Los Angeles beaches guide for water quality links.
Spring: March to May
Spring warms slowly. Rain tapers off after March, and wildflowers and green hills peak after a wet winter. Near the coast, May often starts gray, with low clouds that may clear by afternoon. Highs at LAX average around 66 to 70°F through spring.
Summer: June to August
June is known for June Gloom, when a marine layer keeps the coast cloudy and cool in the morning. July and August are warm and dry, with Downtown highs averaging 82 to 84°F and LAX highs around 75 to 77°F. Inland valleys can be much hotter. Summer is the busiest season for beaches and theme parks.
Fall: September to November
Early fall stays warm, and heat waves are common in September. Highs Downtown average 83°F in September and about 79°F in October. Fall is also the season for Santa Ana winds, which are dry, gusty winds from the northeast that raise wildfire risk. Rain begins to return in November.
Santa Ana winds and fire weather
During Santa Ana events and red flag warnings, some parks and trails close in advance. State and city parks in the Santa Monica Mountains have joint closure plans for these days. Check Ready LA County for alerts and the outdoor activities guide for current trail closures.
Best time to visit Los Angeles
For warm beach days
July through September, when the ocean is at its warmest and the coast is sunniest.
For fewer crowds
Late September through early November, after summer vacations end.
For hiking
Late fall through spring, when trails are cooler. Avoid red flag days.
For holiday events
Late November through early January, with light displays, parades and the Rose Parade.
What to pack
Packing tips
- Bring layers. Mornings and evenings are cool near the ocean, even in summer.
- Pack a light jacket. You will want it at the beach at night and in winter.
- Use sunscreen year-round. The sun is strong even on cool days.
- Carry a small umbrella in winter. Storms are short but can be heavy.
- Plan for heat inland. Bring water and a hat for summer trips to the valleys and theme parks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the warmest month in Los Angeles?
August, with an average Downtown high of 84.0°F. September is close behind at 83.0°F.
What is the rainiest month in Los Angeles?
February, with an average of 3.64 inches Downtown, followed by January at 3.29 inches.
What is June Gloom?
A marine layer that brings low clouds and cool mornings to the coast in late spring and early summer. It often clears by afternoon, especially inland.
Is it warm enough to swim in Los Angeles?
The ocean is warmest in late summer and early fall. Many people wear wetsuits for longer swims at other times of year.
Does it snow in Los Angeles?
Not in the city. Snow falls in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains in winter, and you can often see it from town on clear days.
What are Santa Ana winds?
Dry, gusty winds that blow from the inland deserts toward the coast, mostly in fall and winter. They bring heat and high fire danger.
More guides
- Visitors guide
- Attractions and things to do
- Events calendar
- Where to stay
- Restaurants and food
- Nightlife
- Neighborhoods
- Getting around
- Outdoor activities
- Beaches
- Theme parks
- Family vacation
- Living in Los Angeles
- All Weather posts
Photo credits
Featured image: Michael Chusid / Wikimedia Commons, CC0