Las Vegas Weather in January: Essential Climate Guide

Introduction

Visitors to Las Vegas are often surprised by the weather in winter. Some people believe it’s warm year-round, while others think it’s freezing cold. The truth lies somewhere in between and depends on your perspective. Someone arriving in Las Vegas from Buffalo, New York, may find January temperatures pleasantly warm. Conversely, a visitor from Florida might consider January very cold. In this post, I will provide detailed insights into what it’s like to visit Las Vegas in January, the second coldest and second wettest month of the year. I'll delve into the specifics of Las Vegas weather at the beginning of the year, outlining what you can expect during your visit.

Be sure to see how I ranked this month for best month to visit at the end!

Snow just above Red Rock Canyon just outside Las Vegas

Quick Stats

• Second coldest month

• Second wettest month

• Average High 55F-57F (13C-14C)

• 3 Days of Rain

• Warmest ever 77F (25C) - Coldest ever 8F (-13C)

• Most rain in a day 1.33”

• Most snow in a day 4.7”

• 2nd least busy month* (Source: LVCVA Research Center)

Temperatures

Statistically, January stands as the second coldest month of the year in Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean freezing conditions throughout. The average high temperature typically ranges from 55°F/13°C to 57°F/14°C, although occasional fluctuations can push temperatures notably higher or lower. On average, around 13 days in the month see temperatures rise above 60°F/16°C, with the highest recorded temperature hitting 77°F/25°C. Conversely, cold arctic air sporadically descends from the north, occasionally plunging Las Vegas below freezing, particularly during nighttime. However, in its history, only a handful of days have seen high temperatures fail to surpass freezing.

I find the best way to get a feel for the weather is by looking at what happened in a previous year. Here is the latest actual January temperatures (2024).

View fullsize

You can see quite a range but nearly half the month was 60F/16C or better with even two perfect 72F/22C degree days to end the month. Statistically, temperatures do warm throughout the month so the second half is often warmer than the first.

Rainfall

Being a desert, there isn't much to discuss in terms of rainfall. Nonetheless, visitors to Las Vegas are often surprised by the occasional cold and wet day. January marks the city's second wettest month of the year, yet it typically accumulates only about half an inch of rainfall on average. Generally, only three days in the month see recorded rainfall, so the likelihood of encountering rainy weather during your visit is akin to winning at the roulette wheel.

If you’re driving or renting a car in Las Vegas and the forecast calls for rain, know two things:

1. Las Vegas drivers are always caught off guard when the roads are wet.

2. Oil from cars builds up on the roads. When it rains, the roads become very slick from the oil. Slow down and give extra space to the car in front of you.

Snow

Statistically, January holds the title of the snowiest month of the year for Las Vegas, but it's more of a punchline than a serious concern. Since 1979, there hasn't been any measurable snowfall in January. Occasionally, a few snowflakes may appear, but they typically dissipate quickly without accumulating. While snow isn't a worry for the Strip, areas outside of town can be completely different, especially at higher elevations. Visitors driving to Las Vegas are often caught off guard by snow. For further insights into snow in Las Vegas and its surrounding areas, feel free to explore my blog post below dedicated to this topic.

What To Pack

• Lightweight sweaters or jackets for daytime outings.

• Warm coats or outerwear for cooler evenings.

• Scarves, hats, and gloves in case of a very cold day or you come from a warm climate.

• Sunglasses because chances are good there will still be lots.

• Reusable Water Bottle

• Umbrella or rain jacket especially if the forecast calls for rain. Finding an umbrella on the Strip after its already started to rain can be difficult and/or expensive.

• Comfortable shoes are a must. Las Vegas involves a lot of walking, especially along the Strip. Comfortable shoes are essential to prevent getting tired and blisters.

• Swimwear is not necessary unless your hotel has a heated pool. Some of the resorts I know that have heat pools include: The Venetian Resort, Caesars Palace, The Mirage, Mandalay Bay, Bellagio, Aria Resort & Casino The Cosmopolitan, The Wynn, The Palazzo at The Venetian Resort, MGM Grand. Not all the pools at these locations will be heated.

Don’t Forget These Other Things:

• A portable charger. I know from experience if you forget one it’s gonna cost you an exorbitant amount to replace it if you have to buy it on the Strip.

• Remember to pack your necessary medications as well as personal care items like toiletries, hand sanitizer, and lip balm.

• Don't forget to bring your ID, credit cards, travel insurance information, and any other essential documents you may need for your trip. Seems obvious but I’ve done it.

Sunrise/Sunset

Sunrise on January 1st (if anyone is sober enough to see it) starts at 6:51 AM. By the end of the month the sunrise is 6:42 AM. Sunset at the beginning of the month is 4:45 PM and by the end is 5:05 PM. This produces about 10 hours of daylight each day. Remember, Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone - same as Los Angeles.

Safety Tips

Most of these tips are for those of you who will venture off the strip to nearby parks for hiking or biking.

1. Stay hydrated: Despite cooler temperatures, the desert can be deceptively dry. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. This is even true if you only plan to stay on the Strip. And remember alcohol adds to dehydration.

2. Dress in layers: Be prepared for temperature fluctuations by wearing layered clothing that can be adjusted accordingly. I find sweatshirts and a t-shirt work best most days if it’s not raining. I can shed the outer layer when indoors.

3. Protect against sun exposure: Even in the winter the sun can be intense in the desert. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, especially if you’re hiking.

4. Exercise caution on the roads: If it rains, exercise caution while driving since road conditions may become slick.

5. Check weather forecasts: Stay informed about current weather conditions and forecasts to plan your activities accordingly and avoid unexpected weather-related surprises, especially if you are driving to Las Vegas.

Planning to visit Death Valley?

Check out my weather guide for Death Valley.

Conclusion

January isn't typically considered prime time for visiting Las Vegas, but post-holiday periods often offer enticing deals. Weather-wise, the month brings variability but rarely reaches extremes. Periodically, cold fronts sweep in from the north, accompanied by strong winds and chilly temperatures. Occasionally, Pacific storms bring beneficial rains to the desert, surprising many tourists. However, these wet days are infrequent and short-lived, usually lasting no more than one day. Despite this, many days still see temperatures exceeding 60°F/16°C, much to the delight of visitors from wintery places. Although unheated pools may be closed, the combination of light crowds, mild temperatures, and abundant sunshine still makes January a somewhat favorable time to experience Las Vegas.

My Rank For Best Month To Visit Las Vegas: 7th