May is mostly dry, with rain on only a couple of days in an average year. It is a good month for walking the city and getting out on the water, although fog becomes more frequent along the western neighborhoods.
In this guide
This guide is part of our San Francisco weather by month hub. For trip planning, see the San Francisco visitors guide.
May averages, San Francisco Downtown
- Average high 64°F
- Average low 51°F
- Average rainfall 0.7 inch
- Rainy days 2 (days with at least 0.1 inch)
- Source NOAA 1991 to 2020 climate normals
What the weather is like
Expect a mix of sun and marine layer. Downtown and the Mission can be sunny while the Sunset and Richmond districts sit under gray skies. Afternoon wind is common.
These averages come from the downtown station. Neighborhoods near Ocean Beach are often cooler and grayer, and the Mission and SoMa are often warmer. In May the station records about 2 days with measurable rain in an average year.
What to pack
Pack a windbreaker, a sweater and layers you can peel off. The temperature can drop quickly when the fog comes in. Our San Francisco packing list covers the basics for every season.
What is on in May
Bay to Breakers runs across the city in May, and Carnaval takes over the Mission around Memorial Day weekend. See San Francisco events in May for dates and details.
Planning around the weather
Compare May with the months either side: April and June. If you are still choosing dates, read the best time to visit San Francisco.
Official resources: NOAA U.S. climate normals, National Weather Service Bay Area forecast.
Frequently asked questions
How warm is San Francisco in May?
The average high at the downtown station is 64°F and the average low is 51°F.
Is May foggy in San Francisco?
Fog becomes more common in May, especially in the western neighborhoods, but many days are partly sunny.
Photo credits
Featured image: 4300streetcar / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0.