2020 Chinese Zodiac: Year of the Rat

Learn what Chinese zodiac sign 2020 is, plus Chinese New Year date, element, personality themes, and compatibility.

Chinese zodiac uses Chinese New Year boundaries. January and early February birthdays may belong to the previous zodiac year.

Quick Facts for 2020

Zodiac sign

Rat

Chinese New Year date

January 25

Five element

Metal

Cycle position

1 of 12

2020 Year of the Rat Meaning

In Chinese astrology, 2020 belongs to the Rat branch. People born on or after January 25 in 2020 are usually counted as Rat.

If born before January 25, the sign is usually Pig.

Read the full Rat profile

Rat Compatibility

Traditional matching often lists these pairs for Rat:

  • Best matches: Dragon, Monkey
  • Challenging matches: Horse, Goat
View complete Chinese zodiac compatibility chart

Other Rat Years

Years in the same 12-year cycle:

FAQ: 2020 Chinese Zodiac

What Chinese zodiac is 2020?

2020 is the Year of the Rat.

What element is 2020 in Chinese zodiac?

2020 is a Metal Rat year in the sexagenary cycle.

How do I check January or February birthdays for 2020?

Compare the birthday with January 25. Before that date is usually Pig year.