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Santa Clara County Climate

Santa Clara County, California

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec59.1°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

59.1°F

Annual Precip

21.2"

Annual Snowfall

3.6"

Extreme Heat Days

19

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
4.2"
4.2"
3.2"
1.6"
0.7"
0.2"
0.0"
0.0"
0.1"
0.9"
2.1"
4.0"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

9b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

3,701

Supports most vegetables & fruits

Last spring frost (32°F): 02/02
First fall frost (32°F): 12/15

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring54°61°5.5"Summer66°70°0.2"Fall54°68°3.1"Winter48°51°12.4"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 68% of US counties
Wetter than 16% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 1% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Santa Clara County

Climate Verdict

Santa Clara County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 59.1°F, semi-arid conditions with only 21.2 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 18.6875 days above 90°F annually, light snow averaging 3.6 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 49.0°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 69.7°F. The climate is remarkably stable year-round, with only a 21°F difference between January and July. December is typically the coldest month and August the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

The moderate temperatures support hiking, cycling, and camping comfortably in spring, summer, and fall.

Regional Context

Santa Clara County closely matches the California statewide average temperature of 58.7°F, it is somewhat drier than average for California, the county experiences 39.983424962933874 fewer extreme heat days than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Santa Clara County Weather

The Ideal Temperate Valley Environment

Santa Clara averages 59.1°F, exceeding the national median and providing a reliably warm climate. This environment supports both the region's historical orchards and its modern tech hubs.

Matching the California Average Perfectly

The county's 59.1°F annual average is nearly identical to the California state average of 58.7°F. It serves as a benchmark for the state's most populated coastal-adjacent regions.

A Drier Choice in the Bay Area

With only 21.2 inches of annual precipitation, Santa Clara is drier than San Mateo and Santa Cruz. It uniquely records 3.6 inches of snowfall in its higher elevations, unlike its immediate coastal neighbors.

Warm Summers and Crisp Winter Nights

July averages nearly 70°F, accompanied by 19 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winter temperatures average 49.4°F, making it slightly cooler than the adjacent San Mateo County.

HVAC Readiness for Summer Heat

Energy-efficient cooling is important for the 19 days of high heat throughout the summer. Homeowners should also plan for occasional winter frosts when temperatures dip toward the 49°F average.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Santa Clara County?
The average annual temperature in Santa Clara County, CA is 59.1°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Santa Clara County get?
Santa Clara County receives an average of 21.2 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Santa Clara County?
Yes, Santa Clara County receives an average of 3.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Santa Clara County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Santa Clara County is 68.5°F. The county experiences an average of 19 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Santa Clara County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Santa Clara County is 49.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 49.0°F.

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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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