Washington DC vs New York

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Washington DC edges ahead as the better destination in December. Washington DC offers 6 hours of daily sunshine with only 9 rain days, while New York sees 6 sunshine hours and 10 rain days.

Washington DC is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. New York is cooler at 6°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Washington DC is the stronger choice in December.

Washington DC reaches an average high of 8°C (46°F) and drops to 0°C (32°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

New York averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and -1°C (30°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Washington DC receives approximately 91 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

New York sees 101 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Washington DC the drier option by 1 rain day and 10 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.