December Weather in Los Angeles, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

In Los Angeles during December, the weather presents a delightful blend of mild temperatures and occasional rain. With maximums reaching 28°C (83°F) and dipping to a cool 3°C (38°F), the average daily temperature sits around 13°C (57°F). Rainfall is moderate, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) across five rainy days, while the humidity hovers at a comfortable 71%. This combination fosters a refreshing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the city’s sights and vibrant outdoor life amidst the holiday spirit.

December Temperature in Los Angeles

In December, Los Angeles experiences a notable drop in temperatures as winter approaches. The minimum temperature hovers around 3°C (38°F), while the average settles at a mild 13°C (57°F), with daytime highs reaching up to 28°C (83°F). Compared to the warmer months, December's temperatures mark a significant decline, yet they still retain a comfortable warmth, inviting outdoor activities without the oppressive summer heat. This month serves as a refreshing transition, as residents and visitors alike enjoy the pleasant chill in the air while embracing the festive spirit of the season.

December Weather in Los Angeles: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates December temperature patterns in Los Angeles, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec565759646570757674706356
Data source: Temperature data for Los Angeles generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

December Precipitation in Los Angeles

In December, Los Angeles experiences its most significant rainfall of the year, with precipitation reaching 76 mm (3.0 in) over an average of five days. This marks a noticeable uptick in moisture compared to the preceding months, particularly November, which brings just 17 mm (0.7 in) over a single day. The shift to a wetter climate signals the onset of winter, contrasting sharply with the dry summer months, where rainfall is almost nonexistent. As the year closes, December not only replenishes the region but also highlights the stark variations in Los Angeles's weather patterns, making it a pivotal month for precipitation in the city's annual climate cycle.

December Precipitation Trends in Los Angeles

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Los Angeles, with values for each month alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how December's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7155701912322381876
Data source: Precipitation data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

December Humidity in Los Angeles

As the year winds down, December brings a humidity level of 71% to Los Angeles, slightly above the year’s low of 67% observed in October. This month reflects a subtle uptick compared to the dry autumn, with humidity gradually rising from November's 68%. Notably, the trend shows higher humidity levels during the winter months, starting from January's 74% and peaking in February at 79%. The summer months, however, maintain a more consistent and lower range, averaging between 68% and 73%. Overall, December signifies a transitional phase as the city prepares to embrace the wetter and cooler months ahead, with humidity quietly ebbing and flowing like the nearby Pacific waves.

December Average Humidity in Los Angeles

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Los Angeles, with December's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how December's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec74%79%75%71%70%72%73%69%68%67%68%71%
Data source: Humidity data for December generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

December UV Index in Los Angeles

As December rolls in, Los Angeles experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, with a burn time of 30 minutes. This marks a seasonal decline from the extreme levels seen during summer months, which often peaked at 11 in June and July, necessitating shorter exposure times of just 10 minutes to avoid sunburn. The trend throughout the year reveals a shift from high to very high exposure levels in the spring and summer, tapering to more manageable levels in the fall and winter. By December, residents can enjoy outdoor activities with less concern for sun damage, making it a great time to explore the city's natural beauty. For more detailed insights into UV exposure, check out Los Angeles UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Los Angeles for December

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Los Angeles in December, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec46891011111010754
Data source: Los Angeles December UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

December Sunshine in Los Angeles

December in Los Angeles brings a gentle dip in sunshine hours, recording 225 hours of glorious sun. This month gracefully closes the year, following a steady climb in daylight, peaking in the sun-soaked July with 380 hours. As the seasons shift, December’s sunshine is reminiscent of the early months, where January starts off with just 187 hours. Despite the drop, this month still boasts ample sunny days compared to the winter chill in many other regions. The overall trend reflects a familiar rhythm of increasing sun as the year progresses, reaching its apex in summer before gracefully tapering off, yet still painting a vibrant picture of LA’s allure, even in the heart of winter.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Los Angeles: December Highlighted

The December sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Los Angeles experiences direct sunlight during the month of December, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of December with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec187h228h281h314h348h364h380h360h314h292h255h225h
Data source: Los Angeles December Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Los Angeles During December

In Los Angeles, the likelihood of sunny weather experiences a noteworthy drop in December, with only 49% chance of sunshine compared to the more radiant months preceding it. This decline marks a significant seasonal shift, as the earlier months—from sunny September at 74% to November at 69%—showcase a pattern of increasingly bright days. Notably, December falls below the 50% threshold, suggesting that while the city often basks in sunshine, the year's closure may usher in a bit more cloud cover. As one of the cooler months, December contrasts sharply with the peak summer months like August and September, where sun-seeking Angelenos enjoy up to 72% and 74% sunshine, respectively. The trend clearly indicates that while Los Angeles retains its reputation for pleasant weather, December signals a shift towards a more overcast experience.

Percentage of Sunny Days in December in Los Angeles

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Los Angeles throughout the year, with December highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Los Angeles experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec62%65%69%54%55%68%68%72%74%68%69%49%
Data source: Los Angeles December chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Los Angeles in December

As the calendar turns to December, daylight in Los Angeles begins to shorten, culminating in just 9 hours of sunlight. This reduction marks the end of a gradual decline that starts after the longer days of June and July, where the sun graces the city with 14 hours. From this peak, the days steadily diminish, illustrating a clear seasonal shift that welcomes the cozy winter months. As we move through the fall, daylight lingers at 10 hours in November, only to dip further in December, creating a contrast with the vibrant, sun-drenched months of spring and summer. This cyclical pattern not only offers a visual rhythm to the year but also invites Angelenos to embrace the unique charm and beauty of their winter days.

Average Daylight Hours in Los Angeles for December

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Los Angeles throughout the year, with December highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec10h 10m10h 58m11h 59m13h 2m13h 56m14h 21m14h 7m13h 20m12h 19m11h 17m10h 22m9h 55m
Data source: Los Angeles daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

December Winds in Los Angeles

As the year draws to a close, December in Los Angeles ushers in a subtle shift in wind patterns. With an average wind speed of 2.0 m/s (4 mph), December experiences a slight decrease from November's breeze, which marked the year's lowest average at 1.8 m/s (4 mph). This dip follows a generally steady trend throughout the latter half of the year, where October and November also recorded lower speeds compared to the spring and early summer months, which enjoyed a consistent 2.2 to 2.3 m/s (5 mph) range. Overall, this pattern showcases a gentle unwinding of the city's typical coastal breezes as winter approaches, making December's light winds a fitting conclusion to the year's climatic cycle.

Average December Wind Speed in Los Angeles

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Los Angeles, with values for each month shown alongside December's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how December's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.22.12.22.32.32.32.12.11.92.01.82.0 m/s
Data source: Los Angeles December wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How December Weather in Los Angeles Compares to Other Months

The weather in Los Angeles changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of December's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Los Angeles and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather between December and January, we see mild similarities in temperature and humidity. Both months feature a minimum temperature of around 3°C (38°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). However, January tends to be slightly warmer at its maximum, reaching up to 31°C (89°F), compared to December's peak of 28°C (83°F). Precipitation levels are also quite close, with December receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) and January recording 71 mm (2.8 in), both spread over five days. Humidity seems to increase slightly in January, with an average of 74%, compared to 71% in December. For more detailed information on January weather, you can check Los Angeles weather in January.

In December, temperatures in the area range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 13°C (57°F). The month witnesses about 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over approximately five days, accompanied by a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, February tends to be slightly warmer, with temperatures between a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 32°C (89°F), averaging at 14°C (57°F). The precipitation decreases to around 55 mm (2.2 in) over five days, and humidity levels rise to 79%. For a detailed look at February weather, you can visit Los Angeles weather in February.

December weather generally presents a milder experience compared to March, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F). In December, it tends to be more humid, with an average humidity level of 71% and about 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 5 days.

March, on the other hand, features slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (40°F) and a maximum of 31°C (88°F), making it a bit more pleasant overall. Although March sees a similar amount of precipitation at 70 mm (2.8 in), it has more rainy days, totaling 8, and a higher humidity level of 75%. For more detailed information, you can check Los Angeles weather in March.

In comparing the weather of December and April, significant differences emerge. December features a cooler climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), accompanied by 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over about five days. The humidity in December stands at a relatively high 71%. Contrastingly, April enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum reaching 37°C (99°F). The month experiences considerably less rainfall, with only 19 mm (0.7 in) over just two days, while humidity remains similar at around 70%. For a more detailed look at the conditions in April, you can visit Los Angeles weather in April.

Comparing December and May weather reveals distinct seasonal differences. In December, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 13°C (57°F). This month typically sees around 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over 5 days, resulting in a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, May is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 9°C (48°F) to a maximum of 35°C (96°F) and an average of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation in May is significantly lower at just 12 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days, maintaining a humidity level of 70%. For more specific details about the pleasant May temperatures, you can check Los Angeles weather in May.

In December, the weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), and an average of 13°C (57°F). The month sees about 76 mm (3.0 in) of precipitation over approximately five days, contributing to a relatively humid environment with a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, June boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and maximum highs reaching up to 38°C (100°F). Remarkably, June experiences minimal rainfall, with just 3 mm (0.1 in) and no rainy days, while maintaining a similar humidity level of 72%. For more details on June's climate, you can refer to Los Angeles weather in June.

December offers a much cooler climate compared to the sweltering heat of July. With minimum temperatures around 3°C (38°F) and average highs reaching 28°C (83°F), December experiences significantly higher precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3 inches) over about 5 days, alongside a humidity level of 71%. In stark contrast, July boasts a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F) and an average maximum of 45°C (113°F), with virtually no rainfall at only 2 mm (0.1 inches) and completely dry weather on most days. Both months exhibit similar humidity levels, with July slightly higher at 73%. For more details on July's warm climate, check out Los Angeles weather in July.

When comparing the weather in December to that in August, it's clear that they present vastly different conditions. December experiences a more moderate temperature range, with minimums around 3°C (38°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F), combined with an average temperature of 13°C (57°F). This month also sees increased precipitation, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over approximately five days, contributing to a humidity level of 71%.

In contrast, August boasts warmer temperatures, with minimums starting at 15°C (60°F) and peaking at an impressive 39°C (102°F), for an average of 24°C (76°F). Notably, August is much drier, receiving only 2 mm (0.1 in) of rainfall, typically across no rainy days, and maintaining a slightly lower humidity of 69%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Los Angeles weather in August.

In December, the weather is noticeably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a low of 3°C (38°F) to a high of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F). Precipitation is more frequent during this month, with about 76 mm (3.0 in) spread across 5 days, resulting in a humidity level of 71%. In contrast, September boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (55°F) and an average peak of 45°C (113°F), though it generally remains drier, receiving only 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain over no precipitation days and maintaining a slightly lower humidity of 68%. For more details, you can refer to Los Angeles weather in September.

When comparing the weather of December to October, we see notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. December features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 13°C (57°F), while October boasts a warmer average of 21°C (70°F), with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (105°F). Additionally, December is characterized by higher precipitation levels, totaling 76 mm (3.0 in) over about 5 days, compared to October's significantly lower rainfall of just 8 mm (0.3 in) over 1 day. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 71%, compared to October's 67%. For a closer look at October's climate, you can visit Los Angeles weather in October.

In comparing the weather of December and November, November tends to be warmer overall, with average temperatures reaching 17°C (63°F) compared to December's average of 13°C (57°F). November also sees higher maximum temperatures, peaking at 34°C (94°F), while December's maximum is notably lower at 28°C (83°F). Additionally, November is significantly drier, with only 17 mm (0.7 in) of precipitation over just 1 day, in contrast to December's 76 mm (3.0 in) spread across 5 days. Humidity levels are slightly higher in December at 71%, compared to November's 68%. For more detailed insights, you can check Los Angeles weather in November.

Compare Los Angeles's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From December Weather in Los Angeles

As December settles into Los Angeles, the weather presents a delightful contrast to the city's typically warmer months. With cooler temperatures averaging around 13°C (57°F), residents and visitors can enjoy the crisp air, a welcome change from the heat of summer. Rain is more likely to make an appearance, with about 76 mm of precipitation expected over a handful of days, lending a refreshing ambiance to the usually dry environment. Moreover, the 71% humidity adds a touch of moisture to the air, making this month feel quite distinct. For those looking to understand the overall climate trends, you can find more details here: Los Angeles Climate.