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Contents
- The climate of San José
- The best time to visit San José
- The worst time to visit San José
- Spring weather in San José
- Summer weather in San José
- Autumn weather in San José
- Winter weather in San José
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Skyscape of San José, Costa Rica in the evening sun
The climate of San José
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, features a Tropical monsoon climate as classified by Köppen climate classification (Am). The city is surrounded by lush valleys and mountains, which directly influences the weather conditions. The region experiences a relatively stable weather pattern throughout the year with slight variations in certain weather parameters.
Temperature in San José varies mildly with highs moving from 23.9°C (75°F) in January to 26°C (78.8°F) in April and then tapering off to about 22.4°C (72.3°F) in October. The low temperatures also follow a similar trend, beginning at 13.8°C (56.8°F) in January, peaking at around 17°C (62.6°F) in June, and then slowly falling to around 14°C (57.2°F) by the end of the year. The humidity levels remain fairly uniform, ranging from 75% in February to a peak of 91% occurring from September to October.
While rainfall varies significantly throughout the year, the city experiences rainfall on most days. January begins with a rainfall of 32mm (1.26") spread over 14.3 days, with May marking the beginning of the monsoon and the highest rainfall of 369mm (14.53") over 28.7 days. The monsoon period lasts till October, which sees 438mm (17.24") of rainfall spread over 30.5 days. November and December see a significant easing of rainfall with 165mm (6.5") and 65mm (2.56") respectively.
On the other hand, daylight hours stay fairly constant, ranging from 11.6 hours in January to a peak of 12.7 hours in June and July, before it steadily decreases back to 11.6 hours by December. And sunshine hours, a measure of how much sunlight the city gets varies from a high of 9.2 hours in February to a low of 5.8 hours in October.
Temperature in San José varies mildly with highs moving from 23.9°C (75°F) in January to 26°C (78.8°F) in April and then tapering off to about 22.4°C (72.3°F) in October. The low temperatures also follow a similar trend, beginning at 13.8°C (56.8°F) in January, peaking at around 17°C (62.6°F) in June, and then slowly falling to around 14°C (57.2°F) by the end of the year. The humidity levels remain fairly uniform, ranging from 75% in February to a peak of 91% occurring from September to October.
While rainfall varies significantly throughout the year, the city experiences rainfall on most days. January begins with a rainfall of 32mm (1.26") spread over 14.3 days, with May marking the beginning of the monsoon and the highest rainfall of 369mm (14.53") over 28.7 days. The monsoon period lasts till October, which sees 438mm (17.24") of rainfall spread over 30.5 days. November and December see a significant easing of rainfall with 165mm (6.5") and 65mm (2.56") respectively.
On the other hand, daylight hours stay fairly constant, ranging from 11.6 hours in January to a peak of 12.7 hours in June and July, before it steadily decreases back to 11.6 hours by December. And sunshine hours, a measure of how much sunlight the city gets varies from a high of 9.2 hours in February to a low of 5.8 hours in October.
The best time to visit San José
The best time for a visit to San José, considering its tropical monsoon climate, would be during the dry season, roughly between December and April. With a relatively pleasant temperature of around 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 26°C (78.8°F) and lower rainfall, ranging from 65mm (2.56") in December to 100mm (3.94") in April, this period combines the best weather conditions for outdoor activities. And with an average daylight duration of 11.6 to 12.4 hours, it offers plenty of time for sightseeing, exploring the city's vibrant culture or simply enjoying its natural beauty.
The worst time to visit San José
Given its Am classification of climate, the tropical monsoon season from May to November could be considered as the least favorable period to visit San José. The city experiences its highest rainfall during these months, reaching a peak of 438mm (17.24") in October with similar high rainfall levels in the preceding and following months. Additionally, the humidity levels rise from 86% in May to 91% in September and October.
Spring weather in San José
The onset of spring in San José, stretching from March to May, signals the beginning of the monsoon season. Gradually rising temperatures are accompanied by an increase in rainfall from 28mm (1.1") in March to 369mm (14.53") in May. The duration of daylight also increases slightly from 12.1 hours in March to 12.6 hours in May, while the average hours of sunshine reduce from 8.9 hours in March to 6.9 hours in May.
Summer weather in San José
San José's summer ushers in the peak of the monsoon season, extending from June to August. Average high temperatures remain at 23.3°C (73.9°F), while the average rainfall reaches a high of 378mm (14.88") to 339mm (13.35"), across these months. Daylight remains at a peak of 12.7 hours in June, slipping to 12.4 hours by the end of August. Sunshine hours drop significantly indicating cloudy conditions, with just 6.2 hours in June and 6.7 hours by August.
Autumn weather in San José
Autumn in San José runs from September to November and continues to witness high rainfall, with precipitation levels ranging from 344mm (13.54") in September to 165mm (6.5") in November. Visibility drops down to 6km (3.7mi) in these months indicating heavier cloud cover. Despite the high rainfall, temperatures remain relatively stable with average highs of 23°C (73.4°F) in September, dropping down to 22.7°C (72.9°F) by November.
Winter weather in San José
Winter, from December to February, welcomes the dry season in San José with significantly lower rainfall. The city experiences light rainfall, ranging from 65mm (2.56") in December to 26mm (1.02") in February with moderate temperatures from 23.4°C (74.1°F) to 25°C (77°F). The relative humidity, pressure, and wind speed experience slight variations but generally remain stable. This combination of a pleasant climate and reduced rainfall creates an ideal atmosphere for tourists and locals to enjoy the winter season activities and festivities.
Weather in January
As the year kicks off in San José, Costa Rica, balmy temperatures and moderate rainfall set the stage for a tropical climate. January marks a slight increase in temperatures, higher edges reaching 23.9°C (75°F), from the cooler previous month. Weather in January »
Weather in February
By February, San José experiences a slight temperature boost, maintaining a consistently tropical climate. With a peak in temperature at 25°C (77°F), the rise is marginal compared to January. Rainfall continues to lower, contributing to the subtle changes that unfold throughout the month. Weather in February »
Weather in March
An enhanced mellow warmth characterises the month of March in San José. This month shows a minor climb in temperature, reaching 25.8°C (78.4°F), subtly warmer than the previous month. As March progresses, clear skies and a moderate reduction in rainfall provide ideal weather conditions for sightseeing and exploration. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April spells a noteworthy shift in San José's climate. There is a small rise in temperature, cresting at 26°C (78.8°F), the warmest so far for the year. Concurrently, the city experiences a significant upturn in rainfall, a stark shift from the drier first quarter of the year. Weather in April »
Weather in May
In San José, May starts a pronounced rainy season, showing the city's lush and verdant side. A peak in rainfall sees the city drenched with 369mm (14.53") of precipitation throughout the month. As temperatures take a slight dip, May's cool nights and rain-soaked days create a particular atmosphere. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June continues the trend of heavy rainfall in San José. Notwithstanding a small decrease in magnitude from last month's precipitation, rain remains a significant contributor to climatic shifts. The pervading showers and the city's vibrant greenery define June's landscape, providing a unique spectacle to witness. Weather in June »
Weather in July
The weather of San José in July is characterised by a consistent temperature and sustained rainfall. The volume of precipitation remains relatively consistent from June into July, affirming the continuation of the rainy season. Despite these conditions, the city remains a favourite among tourists, known for its lush landscapes and invigorating climate. With the arrival of July, an average high temperature of a still moderately hot 23.3°C (73.9°F) is noted, consistent with that of June. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in San José sees an unhurried decline in both temperature and precipitation levels. Rainfall volume observes only a slight margin of change from its July measure, underlining the persisting downpours. In spite of the extended wet season, the landscapes remain vivid and refreshing, presenting a captivating synergy of subtropical weather patterns. Upon the beginning of August, San José's high-temperatures register at a still moderately hot 23.3°C (73.9°F), maintaining the same temperature as the preceding month. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September ushers in a steady phase in San José's weather. Though there are detectable changes from the preceding month, the temperature settles at a reliable 23°C (73.4°F). The rainfall does not show any drastic shifts, creating a stable framework for the weather to unfold. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings the highest rainfall rate of the year to San José, with a heavy downpour amounting to 438mm (17.24"). As the year advances, temperatures retain their standard profile. Despite the heightened showers, the city's environment continues to thrive spectacularly. Weather in October »
Weather in November
With the onset of November, San José witnesses a significant decrease in rainfall. The decrease in showers ushers in more accommodating weather for outdoor activities. Temperatures continue to hang around their standard range, maintaining the city's pleasing climatic condition. Weather in November »
Weather in December
In December, San José welcomes a lessened intensity of rainfall and a consistent thermal profile. Conditions in December align with November's trends making this a conducive period for outdoor pursuits. With showers continuing to diminish gradually, the city transforms into a haven for locals and tourists seeking to end their year amid the city's fascinating weather patterns. The high-temperature average in December for San José is a moderately hot 23.4°C (74.1°F), staying closely aligned with November's conditions. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in San José?
In San José, Costa Rica, during the entire year, the rain falls for 287.8 days and collects up to 2585mm (101.77") of precipitation.
What is the month with the highest UV index in San José?
January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in San José?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through December, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the least humid month in San José?
The months with the lowest humidity are February and March, with an average relative humidity of 75%.
What is the driest month in San José?
The month with the least rainfall in San José, Costa Rica, is February, when the rain falls for 12.2 days and typically collects 26mm (1.02") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine in San José?
The month with the most sunshine in San José, Costa Rica, is February, with an average of 9.2h of sunshine.
What is the warmest month in San José?
San José's warmest month, April, registers temperatures that range from a high of 26°C (78.8°F) to a low of 15.9°C (60.6°F).
When are the longest days in San José?
June has the longest days of the year in San José, Costa Rica, with an average of 12h and 42min of daylight.
What are the most humid months in San José?
The months with the highest humidity in San José, Costa Rica, are September and October, with an average relative humidity of 91%.
What month is the coldest in San José?
October, characterized by an average high temperature of 22.4°C (72.3°F) and a low temperature of 16.1°C (61°F), is generally the coldest month in San José.
What is the rainiest month in San José?
The month with the most rainfall in San José is October, when the rain falls for 30.5 days and typically aggregates up to 438mm (17.24") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in San José?
With an average of 5.8h of sunshine, October has the least sunshine of the year in San José.
What is the month with the shortest days in San José?
The month with the shortest days in San José is December, with an average of 11h and 36min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in San José?
San José, Costa Rica, does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). CST timezone is used throughout the entire year.
Average temperature
San José, Costa Rica
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is April (26°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is October (22.4°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is June (17°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (13.8°C).
Average pressure
San José, Costa Rica
- Average pressure in January:
1012.3mbar - Average pressure in February:
1012mbar - Average pressure in March:
1012.1mbar - Average pressure in April:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in May:
1011.2mbar - Average pressure in June:
1011.2mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in August:
1011.3mbar - Average pressure in September:
1011.1mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in November:
1011.1mbar - Average pressure in December:
1011.7mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1012.3mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is October (1010.8mbar).
Average wind speed
San José, Costa Rica
- Average wind speed in January:
10.5km/h - Average wind speed in February:
10.7km/h - Average wind speed in March:
9.6km/h - Average wind speed in April:
7km/h - Average wind speed in May:
5.1km/h - Average wind speed in June:
5km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
6.8km/h - Average wind speed in August:
5.5km/h - Average wind speed in September:
4.3km/h - Average wind speed in October:
4.4km/h - Average wind speed in November:
6.5km/h - Average wind speed in December:
9km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (10.7km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (4.3km/h).
Average humidity
San José, Costa Rica
The months with the highest relative humidity are September and October (91%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are February and March (75%).
Average rainfall
San José, Costa Rica
- Average rainfall in January:
32mm - Average rainfall in February:
26mm - Average rainfall in March:
28mm - Average rainfall in April:
100mm - Average rainfall in May:
369mm - Average rainfall in June:
378mm
- Average rainfall in July:
301mm - Average rainfall in August:
339mm - Average rainfall in September:
344mm - Average rainfall in October:
438mm - Average rainfall in November:
165mm - Average rainfall in December:
65mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (438mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (26mm).
Average rainfall days
San José, Costa Rica
- Average rainfall days in January:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in March:
15.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
21.9 days - Average rainfall days in May:
28.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
28.9 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
29.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
29.2 days - Average rainfall days in September:
29.5 days - Average rainfall days in October:
30.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
27.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
19.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (30.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (12.2 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
San José, Costa Rica
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 36min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
6h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in August:
6h and 4min - Average sunshine in September:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
7h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 9h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is October (Average sunshine: 5h and 48min).
Average sunshine days
San José, Costa Rica
- Average sunshine days in January:
13.1 days - Average sunshine days in February:
12.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
13.5 days - Average sunshine days in April:
6.4 days - Average sunshine days in May:
1.8 days - Average sunshine days in June:
0.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
0.7 days - Average sunshine days in August:
0.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
0.1 days - Average sunshine days in October:
0.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
1.6 days - Average sunshine days in December:
9.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is March (13.5 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (0.1 days).
Average UV index
San José, Costa Rica
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
San José, Costa Rica
The month with the most cloud cover is October (Cloud cover 68).
The month with the least cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 30).
Average visibility
San José, Costa Rica
The months with the highest visibility are January, February and March (9km).
The months with the lowest visibility are August, September, October and November (6km).
San José, Costa Rica
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