July is the coolest-feeling summer month for many visitors. It almost never rains, but fog and wind are common, and the Golden Gate Bridge can disappear for hours. The NOAA average high is only about 66°F.
In this guide
This guide is part of our San Francisco weather by month hub. For trip planning, see the San Francisco visitors guide.
July averages, San Francisco Downtown
- Average high 66°F
- Average low 54°F
- Average rainfall a trace
- Rainy days 0 (days with at least 0.1 inch)
- Source NOAA 1991 to 2020 climate normals
What the weather is like
Fog usually burns off from east to west during the day and rolls back in during the late afternoon. The waterfront, the Presidio and the Golden Gate get the strongest wind.
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 July the station records almost no days with measurable rain in an average year.
What to pack
Pack as if for spring: a fleece or sweater, a windproof jacket and long pants. Shorts are fine for inland day trips, where it can be much hotter. Our San Francisco packing list covers the basics for every season.
What is on in July
Fourth of July fireworks go off over the bay near Fisherman’s Wharf, though fog can hide them. See San Francisco events in July for dates and details.
Planning around the weather
Compare July with the months either side: June and August. 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 July?
The average high at the downtown station is 66°F and the average low is 54°F.
Why is San Francisco cold in July?
Cold ocean water cools the air near the coast, and heat inland pulls that cool, foggy air through the Golden Gate.
Photo credits
Featured image: Christoph Strässler / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.