San Francisco Weather in December
San Francisco in December sees moderate daytime temperatures of 14°C (57°F) and nighttime lows of 7°C (45°F). With the highest rainfall of the year it is wise to pack an umbrella and expect frequent showers.
Rainfall in San Francisco in December
The month brings the most rain, so be prepared with an umbrella for the occasional shower. You can typically expect 13 days of rain this month, averaging around 112 mm (4.4 in). Individual showers can be quite heavy this month. A proper umbrella or rain jacket is worth having.
Temperature in San Francisco in December
Daytime highs in San Francisco in December reach 14°C (57°F), with nights around 7°C (45°F). Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. At 7°C (45°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions. This period often claims the chilliest monthly averages of the year.
Sunshine in San Francisco in December
The area enjoys a moderate level of sunlight, with around 160 hours. It's a good balance between sunny and cloudy days.
Wind Speed in San Francisco in December
Average wind speeds reach 3 m/s (6 knots) in December, creating light breezes that feel pleasant throughout the day. Some days are calmer, while others bring slightly more active breezes.
Average water temperature in December
The water is 13°C (55°F) this month — cool enough to feel refreshing on a warm day, but cold enough that most people won't stay in for long without a wetsuit.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. May, June, July, August, September and October typically offer the best weather for San Francisco.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.
San Francisco Temperature in December
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
14°C (57°F)
Water Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Chance of Rain
43%
Precipitation
112 mm (4.4 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
78%
Windspeed
3 m/s (6 knots)
Sunshine
160 hours
Percentage Sunshine
54%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in San Francisco typically stay consistent throughout December, with daily highs averaging around 14°C (57°F). Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 6°C (43°F) to 9°C (48°F).
Average temperatures in December
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in December
Historical weather for San Francisco in December
Browse day-by-day weather records for San Francisco spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
San Francisco historical weather extremes in December
Based on weather observations in San Francisco between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during December.
- The hottest December day on record in San Francisco reached 23°C (73°F) (December 7, 2020).
- On December 22, 1990, San Francisco saw its coldest December day with temperatures maxing out at 3°C (37°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -3°C (27°F) on December 22, 1990, marking the coldest December night on record.
Best Places in the United States of America in December
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in December →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
What to Wear in San Francisco in December
The weather can be unpredictable in December, so pack clothes you can easily mix and match. You could bring jeans, other long pants, and a few t-shirts. A light jacket or light sweater will be pleasant for the cooler moments. High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. Expect water temperatures of around 13°C (55°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. It won't hurt to bring your sunglasses along, as you'll see some sunny periods.What To Do in San Francisco in December
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our San Francisco's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed Water Temp
See the full San Francisco climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
