What to wear in New York in December

December in New York is cold: daytime highs around 7°C / 44°F, lows around 1°C / 34°F, and rain on roughly 11 days. Snow is possible.

Average high
7°C / 44°F
Average low
1°C / 34°F
Wet days
≈ 11.4
Rainfall
111 mm

Long-term averages (1991–2020); wet day = ≥ 0.25 mm (0.01 in). Source: Wikipedia — Climate of New York City (NOAA, Central Park). Always check the forecast before you go.

Warm coat over light layers

  • Long-sleeve tops or thin knits you can wear indoors
  • Warm wool or padded coat
  • Scarf and a beanie for evenings
  • Closed, water-resistant shoes or boots
  • Packable waterproof shell — rain is likely on several days
  • Footwear that copes with slush or snow

Local tips for New York

Wind tunnels between skyscrapers make cold days feel colder; a hat and gloves earn their space in your bag.

Subway stations and stores are often overheated — a warm coat over thin layers beats a bulky sweater.

Snow is possible (around 12 cm on average for the month), so water-resistant boots with grip are the safest shoe.

Sample outfits

Day 1 · Arrival & walk
Long-sleeve tee, dark jeans, walking shoes, warm coat
Day 2 · Museums & sights
Thermal + knit, trousers, walking shoes, warm coat
Day 3 · Dinner out
Knit or smart shirt, trousers or skirt, smarter shoes, warm coat

5-day carry-on capsule for New York

Mix and match — every top should work with every bottom. Wear the bulkiest pieces on the plane.

  • Tops (mix of tees and long-sleeves) × 3
  • Knit or sweater × 2
  • Trousers or jeans × 2
  • Warm coat
  • Thermal base layer
  • Walking shoes
  • Smarter shoes or boots
  • Hat, gloves & scarf

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