Detroit weather in January
January in Detroit averages 32°F by day and 19°F at night, with 2.2 inches of precipitation and 14.0 inches of snow. It is the 12th-warmest and 11th-wettest month of the year here.
- Average high
- 32°F-5° vs December
- Average low
- 19°F27 nights below freezing
- Precipitation
- 2.2 in6 days with 0.1 in. or more
- Snow
- 14.0 in0 days at 90°F+
Is January a good time to visit Detroit?
January is cold, with highs around 32°F. The most comfortable months overall are May to October.
Indoor ideas for Detroit in January
With this cold, these are good bets: Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Masonic Temple, Hitsville U.S.A., Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. All things to do in Detroit.
On January 15 the sun rises at 7:59 am and sets at 5:24 pm, giving 9h 26m of daylight. Daylight all year.
What to pack for Detroit in January
- A winter coat, hat, gloves and warm layers
- Expect nights below freezing
- Waterproof boots for snow
Based on 30-year averages, not a forecast. Check the forecast a few days before you go.
January nearby
| City | Distance | High | Low | Precip. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit | 32°F | 19°F | 2.2 in | |
| Dearborn, MI | 5 mi | 32°F | 19°F | 2.2 in |
| Warren, MI | 11 mi | 32°F | 18°F | 2.2 in |
| Southfield, MI | 13 mi | 32°F | 19°F | 2.2 in |
| Livonia, MI | 15 mi | 32°F | 19°F | 2.2 in |
| Westland, MI | 15 mi | 32°F | 19°F | 2.2 in |
| Sterling Heights, MI | 17 mi | 32°F | 18°F | 2.2 in |
Warmer places in January
Big cities with comfortable January highs between 68°F and 86°F:
Frequently asked questions
What is the weather like in Detroit in January?
In January, Detroit averages a high of 32°F and a low of 19°F, with 2.2 inches of precipitation and 14.0 inches of snow (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
Is January a good time to visit Detroit?
January is cool to cold in Detroit, with average highs of 32°F. Pack warm layers.
Does it snow in Detroit in January?
Yes. January averages 14.0 inches of snow.
Before and after: Detroit in December and Detroit in February. All twelve months: Detroit weather by month.
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Detroit Metro Airport, MI, 14.4 miles from the city center.