New York City Weather in December
Planning a trip to New York City in December? Here's what the weather is really like as winter settles in — and why the city might feel more magical this month than any other.
December in NYC is cold, festive, and unmistakable. Highs start the month in the upper 40s°F and slide into the 30s by the end. Lows drop from the 30s into the 20s as the month progresses, so pack a serious coat (this isn't a light-jacket month, especially in the second half). Rain and snow combine for 9–11 days on average, and snow is genuinely on the table now — winter storms can dump inches quickly, and they can absolutely snarl air travel, especially around the Christmas holiday.
But that's the trade-off. December is when NYC becomes the version of itself people fly across oceans to see: Rockefeller Center's tree, the holiday windows on Fifth Avenue, ice skating everywhere, Bryant Park's Winter Village, holiday markets, and a city genuinely alive in its winter mode. Meteorologist Ian Schwartz breaks down what to expect.
At a glance
What's covered
- Highs, lows, and how cold the second half of the month gets
- Rain and snow days — and why snow gets serious in December
- Winter storm risk and air travel disruption
- What to pack (coat, gloves, scarf — the works)
- Why the holiday atmosphere is worth every degree of cold
Jump to a moment
New York City in December FAQ
What is the weather like in New York City in December?
Cold and festive. Highs start the month in the upper 40s°F and slide into the 30s by the end, lows drop from the 30s into the 20s. Snow is real — winter storms can dump inches quickly. Pack a serious coat, especially for the second half of the month.
Will it snow in New York for Christmas?
Historically about a 25–30% chance of measurable snow on Christmas Day, but multi-inch snowstorms happen more often at random points throughout the month than on Christmas itself. A White Christmas isn't guaranteed — but December will very likely see meaningful snow at some point.
Do winter storms disrupt travel to NYC in December?
Yes, especially around the Christmas holiday. Nor'easter-style winter storms can delay flights for a day or two, snarl the subway, and back up airports. Build buffer days into holiday itineraries if you can, and monitor forecasts closer to your travel date.