Climate trends at San Francisco (1921–2025)
San Francisco, a vibrant city in the United States, has been experiencing notable changes in its climate over the past century. The data from the San Francisco Downtown station, which spans from 1921 to 2025, reveals a warming trend that is consistent with global climate patterns. With a population of approximately 3.36 million, the city is not only a cultural hub but also a significant area for observing climate change impacts.
According to the primary climate statistics, the mean temperature during the first decade of observations (1921–1930) was 14.07°C, while the last decade (2015–2025) shows an increase to 14.58°C, resulting in a warming of 0.52°C over this period. This upward trend highlights the ongoing changes in the region's climate.
Trend Summary
Over the years, San Francisco's climate has shown variations. The mean temperature from 1961 to 1990 was 14.07°C, which increased to 14.52°C from 1991 to 2020. The recent period from 2016 to 2025 has a mean temperature of 14.49°C, which is 0.26°C higher than the prior decade (2006–2015) average of 14.23°C. This indicates a gradual increase in temperatures, aligning with broader climate change trends.
Climate Change Impacts
As temperatures rise, the risk of heat waves and drought may increase, affecting both the environment and the community. These changes can lead to significant impacts on water resources, agriculture, and public health. It is crucial to monitor these trends and prepare for the potential consequences of climate change in San Francisco.
Comparison vs National Benchmark and Paris
The mean annual temperature in San Francisco from 1991 to 2020 is approximately 14.52°C, which is lower than the national top 500 mean of 15.02°C. Additionally, San Francisco's climate is currently 1.92°C warmer than that of Paris, indicating a distinct regional climate profile.
Top-5 Warm Years
- 1992: 16.01°C
- 1996: 15.68°C
- 1986: 15.61°C
- 1997: 15.55°C
- 2014: 15.5°C
The record coldest temperature in San Francisco was recorded in 1955 at 12.88°C, showcasing the variability in the region's climate.
For more detailed data, you can access the raw CSV or JSON files. Additionally, explore our interactive map for more insights.