Verdict

In Phoenix, December has a distinct winter feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a mild month that feels reliable day to day.

It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Conditions are generally easy to work with, with only occasional curveballs.

Avg High
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
10h
What to expect
  • Temperature feel - Easygoing temperatures and a sharp cool-down once daylight fades. It often feels a touch cooler in the shade.
  • Showers & dry spells - Some rain, some shine. You’ll get wet windows, then dry windows. You’ll likely see a few passing showers.
  • Midday sun - Moderate sun. You'll feel fine, but it's still easy to get caught out. This is a 'don't forget the hat' month.
  • Exposure - Generally still, and gusts can catch you in exposed spots. It’s the kind of wind you plan around for viewpoints and coastal walks.
December in context

How it compares to the rest of the year in Phoenix.

Hottest (avg)
#12 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#4 / 12
Daylight Hours
#12 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#12 / 12
Highest UV
#12 / 12
Most Humid
#1 / 12

Temperature

Daytime high
Nighttime low
Feels like (avg)

Sunshine

Daylight
10.0 hours
UV index (max)
4
Typical sun hours
07:24 – 17:22

Rain & Snow

Total
Rainy days
5
Cloud cover
37%
Snowfall

Humidity & Wind

Humidity (avg)
52%
Wind (avg)
Wind (max gusts)

Frequently asked questions

Is December a good time to visit Phoenix?

Typical December days in Phoenix reach highs of 18°C (64°F) with nights around 5°C (41°F). It usually feels mild by day and cold after dark. Overall, December sits in the middle of the Phoenix climate range.

What are temperatures like in December?

In December, you can usually expect highs of 18°C (64°F) and lows near 5°C (41°F). That means mild days and cold nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.

How much does it rain in December?

Rainfall in December averages 27 mm (1.1 in) across roughly 5 days. Overall it is a mostly dry time of year, so showers are usually brief rather than all-day downpours.

How many hours of daylight are there in December?

You can expect about 10 hours of daylight in December. Sunrise is typically around 07:24 and sunset near 17:22. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.

How strong is the sun in December?

UV levels are moderate (around 4); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.

Is it windy in December?

In December, average wind speeds are around 7 km/h (4 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 36 km/h (22 mph). On the ground, it is a gentle to moderate breeze is common, but stronger winds are not frequent.

Explore more