Tucson weather in December
“Mild and bright — an underrated time to visit.”
Roughly 4 rainy days across the month, on average.
December in Tucson brings mild, pleasant weather perfect for winter travelers. Daytime temperatures average 19.4°C (67°F), while nights cool to around 6.1°C (43°F). You'll enjoy abundant sunshine with 8.6 hours daily, and rainfall is minimal at just 33.2mm spread across roughly 3-4 rainy days. It's one of the sunniest desert months, ideal for outdoor exploration without summer heat.
Tucson's December atmosphere is relaxed and festive. Holiday decorations appear downtown and at local venues, while the city avoids the peak tourist crowds of spring. The University of Arizona campus comes alive with seasonal events, and outdoor patios remain comfortable for dining and socializing. It's an excellent time to experience authentic Tucson without overwhelming visitor numbers.
For travelers planning a 2026 December visit, pack layers since mornings and evenings require a light jacket, but afternoons are shirt-sleeve comfortable. The low rainfall means you can confidently plan outdoor activities like hiking Sabino Canyon or exploring Saguaro National Park. Book accommodation early for the best rates, as holiday travelers do book ahead despite moderate crowds.
What to pack for Tucson in December
Layer strategically for Tucson's December temperature swings. Mornings and evenings are crisp, but afternoons warm significantly. Bring versatile pieces you can remove as the day heats up, plus a light outer layer for cooler moments.
- Lightweight merino wool sweater
- Long-sleeve linen shirt
- Light rain jacket or windbreaker
- Comfortable walking shorts and jeans
- Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
What to pack for Tucson in December
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Where to stay in Tucson
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Tucson across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
Hiking Sabino Canyon, exploring Saguaro National Park, visiting Mission San Xavier del Bac, downtown Tucson galleries and restaurants, stargazing at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Tucson. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Tucson
While December has its own character in Tucson, the data-backed best months to visit Tucson are February, March, April, November. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for TucsonOther places with a similar climate right now
Tucson in December — FAQ
Q01Is December a good time to visit Tucson?
Is December a good time to visit Tucson?
Yes — it is a good time to visit, with pleasant, comfortable weather. In December, Tucson averages a high of 19°C (67°F) and a low of 6°C (43°F), with 33mm of rainfall across roughly 4 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Tucson in December?
What is the average temperature in Tucson in December?
The average high temperature in Tucson during December is 19°C (67°F), with an average low of 6°C (43°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Tucson have in December?
How many rainy days does Tucson have in December?
Tucson averages approximately 4 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 33mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Tucson in December?
What should I pack for Tucson in December?
For Tucson in December, pack layered clothing for changing temperatures, a merino base layer for evenings, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Tucson in December?
How crowded is Tucson in December?
Tourist crowds in Tucson during December are typically moderate. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.