Santa Cruz County Climate

Santa Cruz County, California

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec58.5°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

58.5°F

Annual Precip

31.3"

Annual Snowfall

0.0"

Extreme Heat Days

18.375

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
6.5"
6.1"
4.8"
2.0"
0.9"
0.2"
0.0"
0.0"
0.1"
1.3"
3.1"
6.2"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring55°60°7.8"Summer63°66°0.2"Fall55°65°4.5"Winter51°53°18.8"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 64% of US counties
Wetter than 28% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 0% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Santa Cruz County Weather

Moderate Coastal Warmth Year-Round

Santa Cruz maintains an average temperature of 58.5°F, staying above the national median. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean prevents the extreme temperature swings found inland.

Reflecting the Heart of California Weather

The county's 58.5°F average almost perfectly mirrors the California state average of 58.7°F. It occupies a middle-of-the-road position in the state's temperature rankings.

One of the Wettest Local Counties

Santa Cruz receives 31.3 inches of rain, far exceeding the California average of 25.8 inches. It is significantly wetter than its neighbor Santa Clara, which receives 10 inches less rain annually.

Cool Coastal Summers and Stable Winters

Summer averages stay cool at 64.5°F, and the county sees zero annual snowfall. Residents enjoy 18 days of extreme heat, while winter temperatures stay stable at 51.4°F.

Focus on Moisture and Rain Preparation

Given the high 31.3-inch rainfall, maintaining gutters and ensuring proper home drainage is essential. Lightweight jackets are the most practical year-round clothing choice for this steady climate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Santa Cruz County?
The average annual temperature in Santa Cruz County, CA is 58.5°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Santa Cruz County get?
Santa Cruz County receives an average of 31.3 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 Cruz County?
Yes, Santa Cruz County receives an average of 0.0 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Santa Cruz County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Santa Cruz County is 64.5°F. The county experiences an average of 18.375 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Santa Cruz County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Santa Cruz County is 51.4°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 51.2°F.

Track your own weather in Santa Cruz County

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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

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