Weather Comparison
Paris vs New York
Side-by-side weather comparison for December
December Weather: Paris vs New York
| Metric | Paris | New York | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 0°C (32°F) | 4°C (39°F)▲ | New York |
| Average LowHigher is milder | -12°C (10°F) | -8°C (18°F)▲ | New York |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 3 days | 3 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 30 mm | 30 mm | Tie |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 1h/day | 1h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 1 | 1 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 15 km/h | 15 km/h | Tie |
Which City is Better in December?
Paris and New York are closely matched in December. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Paris is on the cooler side at 0°C, requiring warmer clothing. New York is cooler at 4°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in December.
Temperature Comparison in December
Paris reaches an average high of 0°C (32°F) and drops to -12°C (10°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 12°C, meaning significant temperature swings between day and night.
New York averages 4°C (39°F) for the high and -8°C (18°F) for the low, with a daily range of 12°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.
Rainfall Comparison in December
Paris receives approximately 30 mm of rainfall across 3 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.
New York sees 30 mm over 3 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.
What to Pack: Paris vs New York
Packing for Paris in December
Highs of 0°C, lows of -12°C, 3 rain days
- ✓heavy winter coat
- ✓thermal base layers
- ✓warm gloves and hat
- ✓insulated boots
- ✓a warm scarf
Packing for New York in December
Highs of 4°C, lows of -8°C, 3 rain days
- ✓heavy winter coat
- ✓thermal base layers
- ✓warm gloves and hat
- ✓insulated boots
- ✓a warm scarf
Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during December.
Year-Round Comparison: Paris vs New York
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.December is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Paris | New York | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 1°C | 3d | 5°C | 3d |
| Feb | 5°C | 3d | 9°C | 3d |
| Mar | 11°C | 4d | 14°C | 4d |
| Apr | 17°C | 5d | 19°C | 5d |
| May | 22°C | 6d | 23°C | 6d |
| Jun | 23°C | 6d | 24°C | 6d |
| Jul | 22°C | 6d | 23°C | 6d |
| Aug | 17°C | 5d | 19°C | 5d |
| Sep | 11°C | 4d | 14°C | 4d |
| Oct | 5°C | 3d | 9°C | 3d |
| Nov | 1°C | 3d | 5°C | 3d |
| Dec | 0°C | 3d | 4°C | 3d |
Paris Weather in December
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
New York Weather in December
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities