What to Wear in Bakersfield in December
December in Bakersfield brings cool, crisp conditions typical of California's Central Valley in winter. Daytime highs average around 55–58°F (13–14°C), while nights drop noticeably to the low 40s°F (around 4–6°C), so layering is essential. The city sits in a basin, which traps cold air overnight and can produce thick tule fog — a dense, low-lying fog that reduces visibility and makes mornings feel raw and damp even without rain. Rainfall is modest but December is one of the wetter months, with around 0.8–1 inch of precipitation possible across the month, typically falling in short spells rather than prolonged storms. For daytime outings, opt for mid-weight layers: a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater paired with a casual jacket or quilted vest works well. Jeans or chinos are practical choices. Mornings and evenings call for a proper coat — a wool blend or insulated jacket — along with a scarf and closed-toe shoes or ankle boots. Skip the heavy parka you'd need in northern states, but don't underestimate the fog chill. A compact umbrella or a water-resistant outer layer is worth having on hand for the occasional rainy afternoon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What to wear in Bakersfield in December?+
Layer up with a medium-weight sweater or long-sleeve shirt under a insulated or wool jacket for daytime, and add a scarf and warm coat for evenings when temperatures dip into the low 40s°F. Jeans, chinos, and ankle boots or sturdy sneakers are practical choices. A water-resistant layer or compact umbrella is useful since December is one of Bakersfield's rainier months.
Is Bakersfield cold in December?+
Bakersfield is cool but not severely cold in December, with daytime highs typically reaching the mid-to-upper 50s°F (around 13–14°C). Nights are notably chillier, often falling to the low 40s°F (4–6°C), and the Central Valley's tule fog can make mornings feel particularly cold and damp. A proper coat is necessary for evenings, but heavy winter gear is generally overkill.
Does it rain in Bakersfield in December?+
Yes, December is one of Bakersfield's rainiest months, though rainfall totals are still relatively low by most standards — expect around 0.8 to 1 inch across the month spread over several days. Rain tends to arrive in short bursts rather than sustained downpours. Tule fog is actually a more frequent weather concern than rain, creating damp, grey mornings even on dry days.
What should I pack for Bakersfield in December?+
Pack layers you can add or remove as temperatures shift between cool afternoons and cold nights. Include a warm coat or insulated jacket, a few sweaters or long-sleeve tops, jeans or trousers, and closed-toe shoes — ankle boots are a versatile choice. Bring a scarf for foggy mornings and a compact umbrella or water-resistant jacket to handle the occasional rain shower.