Weather
Average highs sit around 7°C with lows near 0°C. It is one of the drier months — pack light.
Crowds & demand
Crowd levels are High for New York City — the biggest crowds of the year.
Prices & value
Prices run high season this month: premium prices.
Events & what’s on
Look out for Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Times Square New Year’s Eve while you’re there.
- Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree — The lit tree and ice rink anchor Midtown's holiday season.
- Times Square New Year’s Eve — Crowds pack Times Square for the midnight ball drop.
The verdict
December is a strong choice for New York City: 7° / 0°, with the biggest crowds of the year and premium prices.
Figures are climate normals and modelled estimates — a planning guide, not a forecast. We separate fact, estimate and recommendation. Updated July 2026
