Madison weather in December
December in Madison averages 32°F by day and 18°F at night, with 1.6 inches of precipitation and 12.0 inches of snow. It is the 10th-warmest and 10th-wettest month of the year here.
- Average high
- 32°F-13° vs November
- Average low
- 18°F28 nights below freezing
- Precipitation
- 1.6 in5 days with 0.1 in. or more
- Snow
- 12.0 in0 days at 90°F+
Is December a good time to visit Madison?
December is cold, with highs around 32°F. The most comfortable months overall are May and August to September.
Indoor ideas for Madison in December
With this cold, these are good bets: Elvehjem Museum of Art, Wisconsin Historical Museum, National Wildlife Health Center. All things to do in Madison.
On December 15 the sun rises at 7:22 am and sets at 4:23 pm, giving 9h 01m of daylight. Daylight all year.
What to pack for Madison in December
- A winter coat, hat, gloves and warm layers
- Expect nights below freezing
- Waterproof boots for snow
Based on 30-year averages, not a forecast. Check the forecast a few days before you go.
December nearby
| City | Distance | High | Low | Precip. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | 32°F | 18°F | 1.6 in | |
| Rockford, IL | 56 mi | 34°F | 20°F | 1.9 in |
| Milwaukee, WI | 75 mi | 36°F | 23°F | 1.9 in |
| Racine, WI | 86 mi | 36°F | 22°F | 1.6 in |
| Kenosha, WI | 87 mi | 36°F | 23°F | 2.2 in |
| Elgin, IL | 91 mi | 36°F | 20°F | 2.2 in |
| Waukegan, IL | 93 mi | 36°F | 22°F | 1.9 in |
Warmer places in December
Big cities with comfortable December highs between 68°F and 86°F:
Frequently asked questions
What is the weather like in Madison in December?
In December, Madison averages a high of 32°F and a low of 18°F, with 1.6 inches of precipitation and 12.0 inches of snow (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
Is December a good time to visit Madison?
December is cool to cold in Madison, with average highs of 32°F. Pack warm layers.
Does it snow in Madison in December?
Yes. December averages 12.0 inches of snow.
Before and after: Madison in November and Madison in January. All twelve months: Madison weather by month.
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Madison Dane Regional Airport, WI, 6.3 miles from the city center.