New York vs Washington DC

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.

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

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

New York reaches an average high of 6°C (43°F) and drops to -1°C (30°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Washington DC averages 8°C (46°F) for the high and 0°C (32°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°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.

New York receives approximately 101 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during December. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Washington DC sees 91 mm over 9 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%.