Davis in January
Good time to visit
January is quiet and affordable in Davis, perfect if you want to explore the university town without crowds. The weather's mild enough for cycling around campus and downtown, though you'll need a rain jacket.
Weather
January brings crisp, clear days with occasional fog rolling in from the bay. Temperatures hover in the 50s during the day, dropping to the low 40s at night. Rain comes in steady bursts - you'll see about 8-10 wet days this month.
14°C high4°C low9 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$85/day average
Events & Festivals
- •UC Davis Winter Quarter begins
- •Martin Luther King Jr. Day events
January Tips
- •Pack layers - mornings are chilly but afternoons warm up nicely
- •Downtown Davis restaurants offer winter specials during the slower season
- •Book campus tours early as UC Davis has limited winter availability
All Months
March through May brings perfect biking weather and the farmers market at its peak. Campus buzzes with energy, and the surrounding countryside turns green from winter rains. September through November offers warm days and cool evenings — ideal for outdoor dining and bike rides. Summers get hot, sometimes hitting 105°F, but the town empties out when students leave, making it quieter and cheaper. Winter brings occasional rain but temperatures rarely drop below 40°F. Avoid major UC Davis events like graduation weekend in June and move-in weekend in September unless you book accommodations months ahead. The annual Whole Earth Festival in May draws crowds but showcases the town's hippie roots with live music and local art.
Davis Scores
Solo
5/10
Couples
5/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
7/10
Luxury
4/10
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