What January feels like in Anchorage
Winter bottoms out in January, the coolest month of Anchorage's year. Afternoons stay around freezing — the sort of cold that makes long outdoor stretches hard work. Little changes after sunset — nights drop well below freezing, only slightly below the daytime level. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Anchorage in January
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. A rainy day brings about 5.3 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. Across the year Anchorage averages about 6.1 mm per rainy day, so January is typical.
Daylight and sunshine in January
In mid-January, sunrise is at about 9:58 am and sunset at about 4:18 pm (local time) — 6 h 20 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 47 min more daylight than in mid-December. About 46% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, sun and cloud share the day.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Anchorage. Against December, the average high is 1.1°C (2°F) lower, with 13 mm less rain. From here it only gets warmer, starting with February. By February, typical highs are -4.1°C (24.6°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
- Hiking: less ideal — trails are cool.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — warm places to spend the coldest part of the day.
Tips for visiting Anchorage in January
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Quick questions
How warm is Anchorage in January?
It feels freezing: typical highs are -6.4°C (20.5°F), with lows near -11°C (12.2°F).
Does it rain a lot in Anchorage in January?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 64 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Anchorage in January?
Pack rain protection and warm layers. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is January or February better for visiting Anchorage?
February, narrowly: it ranks #9 of 12 among Anchorage's months, against #11 for the other. February is warmer and has fewer rainy days.