December · United States
Best time to visit Washington DC in December Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Washington DC in December
Average temperature 3°C, 123 mm of rain, about 0 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 82% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
December score
3.5/10
Ranked #12 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 3°C
- Rainfall
- 123 mm
- Humidity
- 82%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 0
- Crowd Density
- Quiet / Uncrowded
- Average Expenses
- $ · Budget Friendly ($)
December in Washington DC scores 3.5/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - ranked #12 of 12. Expect around 3°C, 123 mm of rain, and roughly 0 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
The National Mall lines up the Capitol, Smithsonian museums, and memorials within a walkable core.
December in Washington DC — the hardest end of the year
December averages 3°C (38°F), cold enough that sightseeing works in bursts rather than in one long day on foot.
At 123 mm this is a genuinely wet month: almost no days with 6+ hours of sunshine in total, and outdoor plans need an indoor fallback.
It scores 3.5/10 here, 12th of 12 months, against 8.5/10 in the destination's best month.
Pack insulated layers, a windproof shell, gloves and boots with grip, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
Plan for low-season pricing, with crowds are light for this destination.
Flexible dates? June scores 5 points higher here — enough to change the trip.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Washington DC in December?
- In December, Washington DC averages 3°C, 123 mm of rain, and about 0 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 3.5/10.
- Is December a good time to visit Washington DC?
- December earns a 3.5/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Washington DC in December?
- Expect about 123 mm of rain in December. Average humidity is 82% and there are about 0 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
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Washington DC, United States. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.