Year-round weather and climate in New York City, United States
Average temperatures in New York City run from an average low of -2°C28°F in February up to an average high of 31°C88°F in July. October is the driest month at 5 rainy days; July the wettest at 15. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 8.8M
- Currency
- USD
- Language
- English
- Time zone
- New York
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in August, September, and October, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Evening Chill: Temperatures drop by a noticeable 11°C20°F when the sun goes down. A light sweater or jacket is usually all you need for evening plans.
Seasonality Profile
True Four Seasons: Dramatic contrasts. Freezing winters, transitional shoulders, and blazing summers.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
All-Day Strolling: Weather is generally forgiving for long walking days. Comfortable sneakers are your most important packing item.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in New York City, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Oct is typically driest at 5 days (65mm); Jul the wettest at 15 days (150mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7°C / 44°F | -1°C / 31°F | 5h | 14 | 139mm |
| Feb | 8°C / 46°F | -2°C / 29°F | 7h | 8 | 58mm |
| Mar | 11°C / 52°F | 2°C / 35°F | 8h | 11 | 173mm |
| Apr | 17°C / 63°F | 7°C / 44°F | 9h | 12 | 124mm |
| May | 22°C / 71°F | 12°C / 53°F | 11h | 8 | 69mm |
| Jun | 27°C / 81°F | 17°C / 62°F | 12h | 10 | 101mm |
| Jul | 31°C / 87°F | 21°C / 69°F | 12h | 15 | 150mm |
| Aug | 28°C / 83°F | 19°C / 66°F | 11h | 14 | 166mm |
| Sep | 25°C / 77°F | 15°C / 60°F | 8h | 10 | 133mm |
| Oct | 21°C / 69°F | 10°C / 50°F | 9h | 5 | 65mm |
| Nov | 13°C / 55°F | 4°C / 39°F | 8h | 7 | 67mm |
| Dec | 7°C / 45°F | 0°C / 31°F | 6h | 12 | 160mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit New York City?
The most sunshine in New York City comes around July, averaging 12 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for New York City?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in New York City swing from an average low of -2°C28°F in February up to 31°C88°F in July. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for New York City?
New York City gets rain on about 126 days out of the year. The wettest month is July. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in New York City with Packola.
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