New York in December

Cold; holiday crowds and very high hotel prices.

All twelve months in one grid — weather, crowds and prices, with gaps left as unknown.

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• MayGreatWarm and comfortable; good walking.
• JuneGreatWarm and long days; humidity builds.
• SeptemberGreatWarm and clear; UN General Assembly week closes roads.
• OctoberGreatBest walking month; busy.

• New YorkHighs around 7 °C (45 °F), lows around 1 °C (34 °F), rain on about 11 daysHighs around 45 °F (7 °C), lows around 34 °F (1 °C), rain on about 11 days
• Northeast, United States · New York, Boston, Washington, Philadelphia, Mainecool

  Cold, sometimes snowy winters; humid 30 °C (86 °F)+ spells in July–August; late September to October is the pick for foliage and walking.Cold, sometimes snowy winters; humid 86 °F (30 °C)+ spells in July–August; late September to October is the pick for foliage and walking.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Holiday season and tree lighting

  Early December to Jan 1 · Midtown

  Crowds and the highest hotel prices.

• New Year's Eve in Times Square

  Dec 31

  Streets close from the afternoon; expect long waits and few toilets.

• Christmas Day big impact

  25 Dec · United States

  Most businesses closed; flights full from about 20 Dec to 2 Jan.

Crowds · United States overall

High

Prices · United States overall

High

United States overall: Holiday lights in New York, ski season opens; flights and hotels peak around Christmas and New Year.

High-price month: see what to book ahead.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in New York, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast
• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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