What January feels like in Nashville
Winter bottoms out in January, the coolest month of Nashville's year. Afternoons feel chilly — fine for exploring on foot if you are dressed for it. After sunset it cools off noticeably — nights hover around freezing, so frost is common. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Nashville in January
It is a changeable month: rain comes about one day in 3, with dry spells in between. When rain comes it is heavy, about 11.3 mm (0.4 in) per wet day, often in short, strong bursts. Across the year Nashville averages about 10.8 mm per rainy day, so January is typical. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in January
Mid-month, Nashville gets 9 h 57 min of daylight, from sunrise near 6:57 am to sunset near 4:54 pm. Days are getting longer: 14 min more daylight than in mid-December. Measured sunshine covers about 62% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Nashville. Compared with December, afternoons are 2.7°C (4.9°F) cooler, with 11 mm less rain. From here it only gets warmer, starting with February. The next month's average high: 10.8°C (51.4°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Nashville in January
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Quick questions
How warm is Nashville in January?
Expect around 8.1°C (46.6°F) in the afternoon and -0.7°C (30.7°F) at night, which most visitors would call chilly.
Does it rain a lot in Nashville in January?
It does: about 10 rainy days bring roughly 113 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Nashville in January?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection and warm layers. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is January or February better for visiting Nashville?
January, narrowly: it ranks #10 of 12 among Nashville's months, against #11 for the other. February is warmer and has more rainy days.