Raleigh weather in December
December in Raleigh averages 55°F by day and 34°F at night, with 3.4 inches of precipitation and 0.8 inches of snow. It is the 11th-warmest and 8th-wettest month of the year here.
- Average high
- 55°F-8° vs November
- Average low
- 34°F15 nights below freezing
- Precipitation
- 3.4 in6 days with 0.1 in. or more
- Snow
- 0.8 in0 days at 90°F+
Is December a good time to visit Raleigh?
December is cool, with highs around 55°F. The most comfortable months overall are April to May and October.
What to do in Raleigh in December
Mix it up: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Pullen Park, Dix Park, Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts. All things to do in Raleigh.
On December 15 the sun rises at 7:17 am and sets at 5:01 pm, giving 9h 44m of daylight. Daylight all year.
What to pack for Raleigh in December
- Long sleeves, a warm jacket and closed shoes
Based on 30-year averages, not a forecast. Check the forecast a few days before you go.
December nearby
| City | Distance | High | Low | Precip. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh | 55°F | 34°F | 3.4 in | |
| Cary, NC | 9 mi | 55°F | 34°F | 3.4 in |
| Apex, NC | 13 mi | 55°F | 34°F | 3.4 in |
| Durham, NC | 22 mi | 55°F | 34°F | 3.4 in |
| Fayetteville, NC | 54 mi | 57°F | 34°F | 3.5 in |
| Greensboro, NC | 68 mi | 52°F | 33°F | 3.2 in |
| Greenville, NC | 71 mi | 56°F | 35°F | 3.6 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 Raleigh in December?
In December, Raleigh averages a high of 55°F and a low of 34°F, with 3.4 inches of precipitation and 0.8 inches of snow (NOAA 1991-2020 normals).
Is December a good time to visit Raleigh?
December is cool to cold in Raleigh, with average highs of 55°F. Pack warm layers.
Does it snow in Raleigh in December?
Yes. December averages 0.8 inches of snow.
Before and after: Raleigh in November and Raleigh in January. All twelve months: Raleigh weather by month.
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 climate normals, station Raleigh Durham Intl. Airport, NC, 10.9 miles from the city center.