San José, Costa Rica is known for its temperate tropical monsoon climate, offering warm and inviting weather year-round.
The temperature typically ranges from 63°F to 81°F, making it a comfortable destination at any time of the year.
This makes it ideal for those seeking to escape both the extremes of cold and intense heat.
The city experiences two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
The wet season, which lasts from May to November, is characterized by humid and overcast conditions.
During this time, visitors can expect heavy, yet refreshing rains.
Conversely, the dry season runs from December to April, featuring partly cloudy skies and more stable weather conditions.
Both seasons offer unique experiences that make San José a versatile destination.
To help you plan your trip, here’s a quick overview of the monthly weather data:
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 77 | 64 | 0.6 |
| February | 78 | 64 | 1.0 |
| March | 80 | 65 | 1.2 |
| April | 82 | 67 | 3.1 |
| May | 81 | 68 | 10.0 |
| June | 79 | 67 | 11.7 |
| July | 79 | 66 | 9.5 |
| August | 79 | 66 | 11.8 |
| September | 78 | 66 | 14.0 |
| October | 77 | 65 | 12.6 |
| November | 77 | 65 | 6.8 |
| December | 77 | 64 | 1.9 |
Whether you’re planning to bask in the summer sun or enjoy the refreshing tropical rains, San José offers something for everyone.
The climate and weather conditions are stable enough to make travel plans easy and enjoyable.
Average Temperature in San Jose, Costa Rica
San José, Costa Rica, experiences a warm climate all year. The temperature usually varies from 63°F to 81°F and rarely goes below 60°F or above 84°F.
Monthly Average Temperatures
| Month | Low Temp (°F) | High Temp (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 65 | 81 |
| February | 65 | 82 |
| March | 66 | 83 |
| April | 68 | 84 |
| May | 66 | 82 |
| June | 65 | 81 |
| July | 65 | 81 |
| August | 65 | 81 |
| September | 65 | 82 |
| October | 65 | 82 |
| November | 65 | 81 |
| December | 65 | 81 |
The hottest month in San José is typically April, with temperatures rising up to 84°F. January has similar warm temperatures, creating a pleasant escape from colder climates elsewhere.
Conversely, the coldest month is usually December, although temperatures generally only dip as low as 65°F.
The climate remains fairly stable throughout the year. While other regions experience dramatic shifts, San José offers consistent and comfortable weather.
Average Precipitation in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The city has distinct wet and dry seasons, impacting how much rain falls each month.
Average Rainfall in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose has a clear wet season and a dry season.
The wet season typically starts in May and ends in November. During this period, rain is frequent and often heavy.
October is the wettest month, with about 12.9 inches of rain.
During this time, San Jose experiences roughly 23 rainy days each month.
In contrast, the dry season runs from December to April.
The driest month is February, with rainfall around 0.8 inches. During these months, rain is rare, with only about 5 wet days each month.
| Month | Average Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|
| January | 0.7 |
| February | 0.8 |
| March | 1.2 |
| April | 3.9 |
| May | 10.5 |
| June | 10.1 |
| July | 7.3 |
| August | 10.2 |
| September | 11.5 |
| October | 12.9 |
| November | 7.6 |
| December | 2.2 |
Average Snow in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose doesn’t experience snow. The tropical climate of Costa Rica means temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from 60°F to 84°F.
Snow and ice conditions are not relevant in this region, so typical precipitation is confined to rainfall.
The absence of snow is consistent throughout the year, ensuring that visitors and residents can expect rain but never snow.
Average Sun in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose receives ample sunshine throughout the year, with variations in daylight hours and cloud cover. The amount of solar energy shifts with the seasons, affecting the intensity and duration of direct sunlight.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose experiences significant changes in daily shortwave solar energy.
The highest solar energy levels are observed in February, around 6.2 kWh. June sees the lowest, about 4.4 kWh.
The following table shows average daily solar energy by month:
| Month | Solar Energy (kWh) |
|---|---|
| January | 6.1 |
| February | 6.2 |
| March | 6.0 |
| April | 5.5 |
| May | 5.1 |
| June | 4.4 |
| July | 4.7 |
| August | 4.9 |
| September | 5.0 |
| October | 5.2 |
| November | 5.7 |
| December | 6.0 |
Sunrise and sunset times also change, with the shortest days in December and the longest in June.
During civil twilight, there is enough natural light before sunrise and after sunset.
Cloud cover varies, contributing to changes in sunshine hours.
Dry season (December to April) features more clear skies. In contrast, the wet season (May to November) often brings overcast days.
Average Humidity in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose experiences a range of humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual humidity is about 77%.
October is the most humid month, with an average relative humidity of 87%.
March is the least humid month, with an average of 66%.
Here is a breakdown of average monthly humidity:
| Month | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 68 |
| February | 67 |
| March | 66 |
| April | 71 |
| May | 80 |
| June | 82 |
| July | 82 |
| August | 84 |
| September | 85 |
| October | 87 |
| November | 85 |
| December | 82 |
The dew point, which measures how comfortable the air feels, varies with humidity.
Higher dew points, such as those in October, can make the air feel muggier.
At night, humidity levels can rise even more due to cooler temperatures, affecting perceived temperatures. This is especially noticeable during the wet season.
Average Wind in San Jose, Costa Rica
The average wind in San Jose, Costa Rica, varies throughout the year. The city experiences gentle to moderate winds, with speeds often dependent on seasonal changes.
Monthly Average Wind Speed:
| Month | Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 20 |
| February | 22 |
| March | 15 |
| April | 13 |
| May | 12 |
| June | 10 |
| July | 11 |
| August | 13 |
| September | 12 |
| October | 10 |
| November | 14 |
| December | 18 |
The windiest month in San Jose is February. During this month, wind speeds can reach up to 22 mph. In contrast, June and October generally have the calmest conditions, with speeds around 10 mph.
Wind Patterns:
Winds in San Jose typically blow from the northwest. This prevailing direction remains fairly consistent, aiding in predictable weather patterns.
To learn more about how wind and other elements affect surface movements, check out surface movement.
During the year, wind speeds usually do not exceed 25 mph. While high winds can sometimes occur, they are not common in this region.
For more detailed information about the wind’s impact in different regions, you can explore wind patterns and articles.
Summary of Wind Data:
- Windiest Month: February
- Calmest Months: June and October
- Wind Direction: Northwest
This data helps in planning activities, especially for those sensitive to wind conditions. These statistics are typical for a tropical city situated in the Central Valley of Costa Rica.
Average Air Quality in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose, Costa Rica, enjoys relatively good air quality for most of the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) generally falls within the “Good” category, indicating low levels of air pollutants.
Key Air Quality Metrics
- AQI Value: Typically between 0-50
- PM2.5 Levels: Usually low
- PM10 Levels: Also low
Monthly Air Quality Data
| Month | Average AQI | PM2.5 (µg/m³) | PM10 (µg/m³) | Temperature (°F) | Pressure (inHg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30 | 8.0 | 12.1 | 70 | 29.92 |
| February | 32 | 7.9 | 13.2 | 72 | 29.93 |
| March | 35 | 8.5 | 14.4 | 73 | 29.91 |
| April | 38 | 8.7 | 14.8 | 75 | 29.89 |
| May | 33 | 7.5 | 12.9 | 74 | 29.92 |
| June | 28 | 6.8 | 11.3 | 73 | 29.94 |
| July | 29 | 7.1 | 12.0 | 72 | 29.95 |
| August | 31 | 7.4 | 12.5 | 71 | 29.93 |
| September | 30 | 7.2 | 12.3 | 71 | 29.94 |
| October | 28 | 6.9 | 11.7 | 70 | 29.95 |
| November | 29 | 7.0 | 11.9 | 71 | 29.93 |
| December | 30 | 7.2 | 12.0 | 70 | 29.92 |
Air Quality Forecast
The air quality in San Jose is expected to remain similar in the future, with low PM2.5 and PM10 levels. For real-time updates, visit the San Jose Air Quality Index (AQI) and Costa Rica Air Pollution | IQAir.
UV Index and Visibility
The UV Index usually ranges from moderate to high, so it is advisable to use sunscreen. Visibility is excellent most of the time, rarely falling below 6 miles.
Topography of San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, sits in a valley surrounded by mountains. The city’s elevation varies between 3,700 to 4,200 feet above sea level.
San Jose is at approximately 9.93° north latitude and 84.08° west longitude, placing it close to the equator. This location contributes to its consistent climate throughout the year.
Elevation Points
- Average Elevation: 3,839 feet
- Minimum Elevation: 31 meters (in some parts of Cantón Upala)
- Maximum Elevation: 4,200 feet
The varied elevation in San Jose creates microclimates. Higher areas tend to be cooler, while lower areas are warmer.
Neighboring Features
- Pacific Coast: About 60 miles west
- Caribbean Coast: About 140 miles east
- Rainforests: Surround the valley, adding to the region’s lush scenery
Surrounding Provinces
- Guanacaste: North, known for its dry forests
- Limón: East, with humid Caribbean climate
- Manuel Antonio: South, famous for its beaches and wildlife
The fertile land and mild temperatures make San Jose an ideal location for coffee plantations. The city’s central location allows easy access to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose, Costa Rica, experiences various extreme weather events. These include heavy rainfall, flooding, and occasional landslides, mainly during the wet season.
Flooding is a major concern in San Jose. During the rainy season, which typically lasts from May to October, intense rainfall can lead to severe flooding. For instance, relentless rainfall in July 2021 caused devastating floods in the northern and eastern regions, leading to fatalities and significant infrastructure damage (severe flooding report).
Landslides are another common extreme weather event. The heavy rain not only floods areas but also destabilizes the soil on slopes, causing landslides that can block roads and damage properties. These incidents are frequent in areas with varying elevation.
Temperature Extremes: While San Jose generally enjoys moderate temperatures year-round, extreme temperature events are not common. The city rarely experiences temperatures below 60°F or above 84°F (detailed climate data). The warmest month is typically May, with sea temperatures reaching around 84°F.
| Month | Avg Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (in) | Extreme Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 63°F – 81°F | 0.5 | Mild, with occasional heavy rain |
| July | 64°F – 80°F | 6.5 | High rainfall, risk of flooding |
| December | 60°F – 79°F | 0.8 | Cooler, start of the dry season |
Best Time of the Year to Visit San Jose, Costa Rica
San Jose, Costa Rica, offers a variety of experiences each season. Some months have better weather for travel, tourism purposes, and outdoor activities. Understanding the climate will help you decide the best time to visit based on your preferences and plans.
What is San Jose, Costa Rica Like in Spring
Spring in San Jose spans from March to May. This period marks the transition from the dry season to the green season. Daily temperatures range from 75°F to 82°F, making it comfortable for exploring the city.
March and April are part of the dry season, experiencing minimal rainfall. May sees an increase in showers, signaling the start of the green season.
| Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| March | 76-82 | 0.8 |
| April | 75-80 | 1.5 |
| May | 72-78 | 7.3 |
What is San Jose, Costa Rica Like in Summer
Summer covers June to August. Known as the “little high season,” these months balance sunny days and brief showers.
The weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Daily highs range from 74°F to 80°F.
It is a great time for hot-weather activities, like visiting parks and participating in festivals. Rain is more frequent in the afternoons and evenings.
| Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| June | 73-79 | 8.1 |
| July | 72-78 | 6.2 |
| August | 71-77 | 7.9 |
Tourism is moderate. Hotels and attractions might be less crowded, making it a comfortable time to explore.
Pack both light clothing and rain gear.
What is San Jose, Costa Rica Like in Fall
September through November is the green season. The area experiences heavy rainfall, especially in September and October.
It is cooler with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F.
| Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| September | 70-75 | 10.1 |
| October | 69-74 | 11.2 |
| November | 68-73 | 4.5 |
Fall is the least popular time for tourists due to frequent rain. If you do not mind the wet weather, you can find lower prices on accommodations.
Indoor activities, like museums and coffee tours, are recommended. Pack waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes.
What is San Jose, Costa Rica Like in Winter
Winter includes December through February. This is the dry season, with cool nights and warm days.
Average temperatures hover between 72°F and 78°F.
| Month | Temperature (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 70-76 | 1.6 |
| January | 68-74 | 0.5 |
| February | 71-77 | 0.6 |
This time is popular with tourists as the weather is perfect for travel and hot-weather activities. It is peak season, so expect higher prices.
Ensure to book accommodations in advance. Pack lightweight clothes, a jacket for cool nights, and sunscreen.
Each season offers unique experiences in San Jose, so plan your trip based on your preferences and desired activities.