December is the wettest month of the year on average, with close to 5 inches of rain. It is also the shortest-day month and one of the coldest, with highs in the upper 50s. Holiday events keep the city busy all the same.
In this guide
This guide is part of our San Francisco weather by month hub. For trip planning, see the San Francisco visitors guide.
December averages, San Francisco Downtown
- Average high 58°F
- Average low 47°F
- Average rainfall 4.8 inches
- Rainy days 8 (days with at least 0.1 inch)
- Source NOAA 1991 to 2020 climate normals
What the weather is like
Storms come in from the Pacific, often with wind. Dry spells between them bring cold, clear mornings. Frost is rare in the city itself.
These averages come from the downtown station. Neighborhoods near Ocean Beach are often cooler and grayer, and the Mission and SoMa are often warmer. In December the station records about 8 days with measurable rain in an average year.
What to pack
Bring a waterproof coat, a sweater, a scarf and waterproof shoes. Hotel prices can rise around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, so book early if you are visiting then. Our San Francisco packing list covers the basics for every season.
What is on in December
Holiday lights are up all month, and the year ends with New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Embarcadero. See San Francisco events in December for dates and details.
Planning around the weather
Compare December with the months either side: November and January. If you are still choosing dates, read the best time to visit San Francisco.
Official resources: NOAA U.S. climate normals, National Weather Service Bay Area forecast.
Frequently asked questions
How warm is San Francisco in December?
The average high at the downtown station is 58°F and the average low is 47°F.
Is December the rainiest month in San Francisco?
Yes. December averages about 4.8 inches of rain at the downtown station, the most of any month.
Photo credits
Featured image: Dllu / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.