What January feels like in Austin
January is the coldest stretch of winter in Austin. Daytime feels cool and fresh rather than cold. Evenings bring a clear drop in temperature, and nights are cold. Damp air makes the cold feel rawer than the numbers alone suggest.
Rain in Austin in January
Expect a mix of dry and wet days, with rain about one day in 4. When rain comes it is heavy, about 9.4 mm (0.4 in) per wet day, often in short, strong bursts. That is close to Austin's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 10.1 mm).
Daylight and sunshine in January
On 15 January the sun rises at about 7:28 am and sets around 5:51 pm local time, giving 10 h 23 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 11 min more daylight than in mid-December. The sun is out for roughly 70% of those daylight hours, so there are plenty of bright spells.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Austin. Afternoons run 1.6°C (2.9°F) cooler than in December, with 10 mm more rain. This is the low point, and February starts to warm up. The next month's average high: 18.2°C (64.8°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable enough to explore on foot all day.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — pleasant for gardens, parks and riversides.
Tips for visiting Austin in January
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Light Jacket
A light jacket or knit layer is enough for most of the day.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is Austin in January?
It feels cool: typical highs are 15.9°C (60.6°F), with lows near 5.6°C (42.1°F).
Does it rain a lot in Austin in January?
It does: about 8 rainy days bring roughly 75 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Austin in January?
Based on the averages: versatile layers, rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. Add a layer for after dark.
Is January or February better for visiting Austin?
February, clearly: it ranks #2 of 12 among Austin's months, against #7 for the other. February is warmer.