Weather by Month - New York
Temperature Comparison
The biggest temperature swing occurs between October and November, with a change of 6°C.
Jan
COLD
Feb
COLD
Mar
COOL
Apr
MILD
May
MILD
Jun
WARM
Jul
WARM
Aug
WARM
Sep
WARM
Oct
MILD
Nov
COOL
Dec
COLD
| Month | Low Temperature | High Temperature | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | | | cold |
| February | | | cold |
| March | | | cool |
| April | | | mild |
| May | | | mild |
| June | | | warm |
| July | | | warm |
| August | | | warm |
| September | | | warm |
| October | | | mild |
| November | | | cool |
| December | | | cold |
Rain & Sunshine Patterns
Driest Months
#1 November
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#2 February
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
#3 May
Best for: outdoor activities & sightseeing
Wettest Months
#1 July
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#2 March
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
#3 October
Expect: possible showers, pack waterproofs
UV & Sun Protection Calendar
⚠️ High UV Alert: March, April, May, June, July, August, September require serious sun protection.
Jan
3
MODERATE
Feb
5
MODERATE
Mar
6
HIGH
Apr
7
HIGH
May
8
HIGH
Jun
8
VERY-HIGH
Jul
8
HIGH
Aug
8
HIGH
Sep
7
HIGH
Oct
5
MODERATE
Nov
4
MODERATE
Dec
3
LOW-MOD
Extreme (11+)
Avoid sun during midday, use SPF 50+
Very High (8-10)
Essential sun protection required
High (6-7)
Use SPF 30+, wear hat & sunglasses
Moderate (3-5)
Sun protection recommended
Low-Moderate (1-2)
Minimal protection needed
Low (0)
No protection required
Daylight Hours
Daylight varies from 9.3 hours in December (winter) to 15 hours in June (summer), which is a difference of 5.7 hours.
Shortest Days
December
9.3h
Average Sunrise:07:12
Average Sunset:16:30
Plan daytime activities for midday when light is best. Early sunsets mean evening plans should account for darkness.
Longest Days
June
15h
Average Sunrise:04:25
Average Sunset:19:27
Extended daylight perfect for evening activities and late dining. You can fit more sightseeing into each day.
Wind & Humidity Overview
Wind Conditions
Average wind speed
Windiest months:
March (14 km/h)
April (13 km/h)
January (13 km/h)
Packing tip: Conditions are generally calm, but a light layer is always handy.
Humidity Levels
Average humidity
71%
Most humid:
September (74%)
Least humid:
March (67%)
Packing tip: Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort in humid conditions.
Seasonal Overview
Northern Hemisphere seasons shape the weather patterns throughout the year. Here's what to expect in each season:
Winter
January, February, December
Avg High 5°C
Avg Low -3°C
Avg Rain 91 mm
Cold conditions; pack warm layers and waterproofs
Spring
March, April, May
Avg High 15°C
Avg Low 5°C
Avg Rain 97 mm
Warming trend with frequent showers; pack waterproofs
Summer
June, July, August
Avg High 27°C
Avg Low 19°C
Avg Rain 105 mm
Warm and pleasant; perfect for travel
Autumn
September, October, November
Avg High 18°C
Avg Low 10°C
Avg Rain 96 mm
Wet season begins; bring rain gear
Monthly Details
Click any month for detailed weather information and packing advice.
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View Best Time to VisitFrequently Asked Questions
When is New York warmest?
July is typically the warmest month in New York, with average high temperatures reaching around 29°C (84°F). This is peak summer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
When is New York coldest?
January is usually the coldest month, with average low temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F). Pack warm layers if visiting during this time, especially for evening activities.
When does New York get the most rain?
July typically sees the most rainfall in New York, averaging around 109mm (4.3 inches). It's wise to pack waterproof layers and have some indoor backup plans if you're visiting during this month.
What is the driest month in New York?
November is typically the driest month, with average rainfall of just 75mm (3.0 inches). This makes it an excellent time for outdoor exploration and activities with minimal risk of rain disruption.
How much does the temperature vary in New York throughout the year?
Temperatures in New York range from average lows of 8°C (46°F) to highs of 16°C (61°F). This variation means you'll want to pack differently depending on when you visit—layers are key for adapting to the seasonal changes.
Do I need sun protection when visiting New York?
Yes, sun protection is important in New York. UV levels can reach 8 during peak months, which is considered very high. Pack sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you'll be outdoors for extended periods.