Global Average Temperature
Last updated: January 19, 2026
15.0°C
°C
The global average surface temperature is approximately 15.0°C (59°F). This figure has risen by about 1.2°C since pre-industrial times due to greenhouse gas emissions.
Historical Trend
Source: NASA GISS
Global Average Temperature by Country
Why This Average Exists
Tracking global temperature is essential for understanding climate change, its pace, and its effects on ecosystems, agriculture, and human societies.
Factors That Affect Global Average Temperature
- Greenhouse gas concentrations
- Solar activity
- Ocean currents
- Volcanic eruptions
- Deforestation
- Urban heat islands
Frequently Asked Questions
Methodology & Data Sources
The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.
Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2023–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.
All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.
Further Reading
- Global Average Rainfall— 990 mm mm/year
- Global Average Ocean Temperature— 17.1°C °C
- Global Average Carbon Footprint— 4.7 tonnes tonnes CO₂/year
- Global Average Sea Level Rise— 3.7 mm/yr mm/year
- Global Average CO₂ Emissions Per Capita— 4.7 tonnes tonnes/year
- Global Average Water Consumption— 137 L/day liters/day
- Global Average Wind Speed— 3.3 m/s m/s
- Global Average Humidity— 77% %