Philadelphia weather in December
December in Philadelphia averages 46°F by day and 31°F at night, with 4.0 inches of precipitation and 3.5 inches of snow. It is the 10th-warmest and 5th-wettest month of the year here.
- Average high
- 46°F-10° vs November
- Average low
- 31°F17 nights below freezing
- Precipitation
- 4.0 in7 days with 0.1 in. or more
- Snow
- 3.5 in0 days at 90°F+
Is December a good time to visit Philadelphia?
December is cool, with highs around 46°F. The most comfortable months overall are April to June and August to October.
What to do in Philadelphia in December
Mix it up: Independence Hall, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Franklin Institute. All things to do in Philadelphia.
On December 15 the sun rises at 7:15 am and sets at 4:35 pm, giving 9h 20m of daylight. Daylight all year.
What to pack for Philadelphia in December
- A winter coat, hat, gloves and warm layers
- Expect nights below freezing
- An umbrella or rain jacket
- 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. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | 46°F | 31°F | 4.0 in | |
| Wilmington, DE | 28 mi | 46°F | 30°F | 3.9 in |
| Trenton, NJ | 30 mi | 44°F | 29°F | 4.0 in |
| Allentown, PA | 45 mi | 43°F | 27°F | 3.9 in |
| Bethlehem, PA | 47 mi | 43°F | 27°F | 3.9 in |
| Reading, PA | 48 mi | 43°F | 28°F | 3.5 in |
| Elizabeth, NJ | 68 mi | 45°F | 31°F | 4.1 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 Philadelphia in December?
In December, Philadelphia averages a high of 46°F and a low of 31°F, with 4.0 inches of precipitation and 3.5 inches of snow (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
Is December a good time to visit Philadelphia?
December is cool to cold in Philadelphia, with average highs of 46°F. Pack warm layers.
Does it snow in Philadelphia in December?
Yes. December averages 3.5 inches of snow.
Before and after: Philadelphia in November and Philadelphia in January. All twelve months: Philadelphia weather by month.
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Philadelphia Intl. Airport, PA, 10.3 miles from the city center.