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Contents
- The climate of New York
- The best time to visit New York
- The worst time to visit New York
- Spring weather in New York
- Summer weather in New York
- Autumn weather in New York
- Winter weather in New York
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The sunset view over skyscrapers in New York City, USA
The climate of New York
New York, a bustling metropolitan city located in the USA, is dictated by the Humid subtropical climate under the Köppen climate classification. The city experiences a blend of four distinct seasons with varying weather patterns and climatic elements. While the winters are cold, the summers witness moderate to high temperatures. The dominant climatic pattern is Cfa, indicating no specific dry season.
The weather remains mostly humid throughout the year, with relative humidity levels wavering in the range of 70% to 76%. New York experiences variable temperatures across the year. In the colder months, from December to February, the average high temperature ranges from 36.5°F (2.5°C) to 42.3°F (5.7°C) while the low varies from 26.1°F (-3.3°C) to 32.9°F (0.5°C). During the warmer months of May to September, the city enjoys a comfortable temperature fluctuation between a high of 68°F (20°C) in May to reaching a peak of 82.9°F (28.3°C) in July and diminishing to 74.8°F (23.8°C) in September. The low temperature follows a similar pattern, scaling from 54.1°F (12.3°C) in May to a maximum of 69.4°F (20.8°C) in July and coming down to 62.2°F (16.8°C) by September.
Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with July registering the highest rainfall of 4.02" (102mm), and November receiving the lowest rainfall of 2.76" (70mm). A noteworthy feature of New York's climate is the occurrence of snow which marks the winter months, peaking in March with an average of 2.64" (67mm). This complements the cooler weather from November to March when temperatures often drop below freezing.
The weather remains mostly humid throughout the year, with relative humidity levels wavering in the range of 70% to 76%. New York experiences variable temperatures across the year. In the colder months, from December to February, the average high temperature ranges from 36.5°F (2.5°C) to 42.3°F (5.7°C) while the low varies from 26.1°F (-3.3°C) to 32.9°F (0.5°C). During the warmer months of May to September, the city enjoys a comfortable temperature fluctuation between a high of 68°F (20°C) in May to reaching a peak of 82.9°F (28.3°C) in July and diminishing to 74.8°F (23.8°C) in September. The low temperature follows a similar pattern, scaling from 54.1°F (12.3°C) in May to a maximum of 69.4°F (20.8°C) in July and coming down to 62.2°F (16.8°C) by September.
Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with July registering the highest rainfall of 4.02" (102mm), and November receiving the lowest rainfall of 2.76" (70mm). A noteworthy feature of New York's climate is the occurrence of snow which marks the winter months, peaking in March with an average of 2.64" (67mm). This complements the cooler weather from November to March when temperatures often drop below freezing.
The best time to visit New York
Visitors seeking to enjoy the most favorable weather and outdoor activities should plan their trip to New York between April to June or from September to early November. During these months, the weather is typically mild with temperatures fluctuating from 57.6°F (14.2°C) to 74.8°F (23.8°C) on the higher end, and 44.1°F (6.7°C) to 62.2°F (16.8°C) on the lower spectrum. Equipped with approximately 8.3 hours to 10.5 hours of sunshine per day, these months offer ample daylight for sightseeing, making them the ideal choice for tourists.
The worst time to visit New York
December to February are typically the least favorable months for visiting New York due to severe winter conditions. These months experience the coldest temperatures, with highs of 36.5°F (2.5°C) to 42.3°F (5.7°C) to lows between 26.1°F (-3.3°C) and 32.9°F (0.5°C). The daylight hours also decrease during this period, averaging between 9.3 hours to 9.7 hours per day, reducing the time available for outdoor activities.
Spring weather in New York
With temperatures progressively warming and blooming flora transforming the cityscape, spring, spanning from March to May, presents a refreshing phase in New York. The average high temperature increases from 46.4°F (8°C) in March to 68°F (20°C) in May, and the lower temperature raises from 34.2°F (1.2°C) to 54.1°F (12.3°C) across the same months. Spring also marks a significant increase in rainfall, stepping from 2.83" (72mm) in March to peak at 3.39" (86mm) in May.
Summer weather in New York
Summer in New York, running from June through August, is characterized by warm and sometimes humid conditions. High temperatures range between 76.6°F (24.8°C) in June and peak at 82.9°F (28.3°C) in July before dropping to 81.9°F (27.7°C) in August. On the lower end, temperatures maintain a pattern similar to the highs, starting at 62.8°F (17.1°C) in June, reaching a pinnacle of 69.4°F (20.8°C) in July, and concluding at 68.7°F (20.4°C) in August. This period receives the highest rainfall with July recording the peak value of 4.02" (102mm).
Autumn weather in New York
The autumn season begins in September and ends in November. It is characterized by a gradual drop in temperatures coupled with brightly colored foliage adding to the city's appeal. High temperatures decrease over these months from 74.8°F (23.8°C) to 51.4°F (10.8°C) while low temperatures follow a similar trend by reducing from 62.2°F (16.8°C) to 40.6°F (4.8°C). Rainfall also sees a gradual decline from 3.15" (80mm) in October to 2.76" (70mm) in November.
Winter weather in New York
Winter in New York is marked by cold conditions, commencing in December and lasting till February. High temperatures decline to reach freezing levels, varying between 42.3°F (5.7°C) and 36.5°F (2.5°C), with similar downward trends for low temperatures from 32.9°F (0.5°C) to 26.1°F (-3.3°C). The extraordinary feature of these colder months is the occurrence of snowfall, with February witnessing a maximum average snowfall of 1.89" (48mm). The daylight during this season is relatively lower than other months, making it less appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather in January
New York weather in January is typically frigid and snowy, making it the coldest month of all. January comes with highs around 36.5°F (2.5°C) and lows of 26.1°F (-3.3°C). This month experiences a slight cloud cover, which can partly obstruct the city's iconic skyline. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February, like January, maintains its cold temperatures characterizing the peak of the winter season. Temperatures peak slightly higher, moving from 36.5°F (2.5°C) in January to 39.2°F (4°C). February brings shorter nights and lengthier days than the prior month with a moderate level of sunshine. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As March arrives, New York transitions from the severe cold of winter towards slightly warmer temperatures with abnormal peaks reaching 46.4°F (8°C). Wind speeds diminish compared to January and February, allowing outdoor pursuits to be more enjoyable. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in New York City marks the definitive arrival of spring. With a temperature peak of 57.6°F (14.2°C), April is a substantial leap from March's cooler weather. This period is characterized by lengthier daylight, allowing visitors and residents ample time to explore the city. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May brings warmer weather to New York City, along with blooms signaling an imminent transition to summer. Temperatures rise significantly compared to April, with a peak value of 68°F (20°C). This month typically has clear skies with the sun shining brightly for residents availing summer's start. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June ushers in summer in New York City with high temperatures reaching up to 76.6°F (24.8°C). The increase in temperature corresponds to a decrease in wind speed, fostering calm and pleasant days. June is characterized by extended daylight hours and clear, sunny skies. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is the peak month of summer and is the warmest month in New York City with temperatures ascending to 82.9°F (28.3°C). The high temperatures are felt throughout the city, with minimal cloud cover and more sunshine hours. Moreover, July brings fewer rainfall days, offering travelers more time to explore without worrying about getting soaked. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in New York City stays hot but slightly cooler than July, with temperatures holding around 81.9°F (27.7°C). Despite the high mercury, the consistency of pleasant, warm winds lessens the intensity of the heat. This month exhibits clear skies resulting in bright and sunny days ideal for outdoor activities. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September begins the transition from summer to fall in New York City, bringing cooler temperatures, falling to 74.8°F (23.8°C). September experiences diminished daylight hours and cloud cover compared to August, leading to noticeable differences in weather patterns. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October in New York City is characterized by much cooler temperatures than September, with highs going as far up as 63.3°F (17.4°C). This month heralds the onset of increased rainfall with shorter daylight hours. While the increase in precipitation has its effects, it does not significantly obscure visibility around the city. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in New York City sees a considerable drop in temperature from October, with an average high of only 51.4°F (10.8°C). The city begins to prepare for winter as daylight hours considerably decrease. November presents less sunshine and daylight hours, inducing early sunsets and lengthier nights. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in New York City introduces the full swing of winter, dropping temperatures to the low 42.3°F (5.7°C). As the final month of the year, December is characterized by limited daylight hours, specifically by the end of the month. Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 28, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What month is the coldest?
January is the coldest month, exhibiting average temperatures of 36.5°F (2.5°C) at the peak and 26.1°F (-3.3°C) at the base.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is January, when the rain falls for 9.1 days and typically collects 2.17" (55mm) of precipitation.
How much does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 169 rainfall days, and 36.65" (931mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
January through April, November and December are months with snowfall.
How much does it snow?
In New York, during the entire year, snow falls for 19.2 days and aggregates up to 7.8" (198mm) of snow.
When is the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What are the most humid months?
The months with the highest humidity are February and December, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
When is the ocean coldest in New York?
With an average ocean temperature of 39.7°F (4.3°C), February is the month with the coldest seawater.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
With an average of 4.7h of sunshine, February has the least sunshine of the year.
When does it snow the most?
The month with the most snowfall is March, when snow falls for 4.1 days and typically aggregates up to 2.64" (67mm) of snow.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
When it does not snow?
May through October are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days?
June has the longest days of the year in New York, with an average of 15h and 0min of daylight.
What are the months with the highest UV index in New York?
The months with the highest UV index are June through August, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What month is the hottest?
July is the warmest month, exhibiting average temperatures of 82.9°F (28.3°C) at the peak and 69.4°F (20.8°C) at the base.
What is the rainiest month?
July is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 18.5 days and accumulates 4.02" (102mm) of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.5h of sunshine.
What is the least humid month?
August is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 70%.
What month is the ocean warmest in New York?
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 74.1°F (23.4°C).
What is the month with the shortest days?
December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 18min of daylight.
Average temperature
New York, NY
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (28.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (2.5°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (20.8°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (-3.3°C).
Average pressure
New York, NY
- Average pressure in January:
1018mbar - Average pressure in February:
1017.1mbar - Average pressure in March:
1017.7mbar - Average pressure in April:
1015.3mbar - Average pressure in May:
1016.3mbar - Average pressure in June:
1013.6mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1014.4mbar - Average pressure in August:
1015.4mbar - Average pressure in September:
1017.7mbar - Average pressure in October:
1016.6mbar - Average pressure in November:
1019.4mbar - Average pressure in December:
1018.4mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (1019.4mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (1013.6mbar).
Average wind speed
New York, NY
- Average wind speed in January:
16km/h - Average wind speed in February:
15.6km/h - Average wind speed in March:
15.7km/h - Average wind speed in April:
14.8km/h - Average wind speed in May:
12.3km/h - Average wind speed in June:
11.5km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
10.7km/h - Average wind speed in August:
10.8km/h - Average wind speed in September:
11.8km/h - Average wind speed in October:
13.9km/h - Average wind speed in November:
14.7km/h - Average wind speed in December:
15.1km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (16km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (10.7km/h).
Average humidity
New York, NY
The months with the highest relative humidity are February and December (76%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is August (70%).
Average rainfall
New York, NY
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is July (102mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is January (55mm).
Average rainfall days
New York, NY
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
10.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
15.7 days - Average rainfall days in May:
17.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
17.4 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
16.9 days - Average rainfall days in September:
14.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in November:
9.9 days - Average rainfall days in December:
12.1 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (18.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (9.1 days).
Average snowfall
New York, NY
The month with the highest snowfall is March (67mm).
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August, September and October (0mm).
Average snowfall days
New York, NY
- Average snowfall days in January:
5.8 days - Average snowfall days in February:
5.5 days - Average snowfall days in March:
4.1 days - Average snowfall days in April:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0 days - Average snowfall days in November:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in December:
3 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (5.8 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).
Average sea temperature
New York, NY
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (23.4°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (4.3°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
New York, NY
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 4min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 3min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 0min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 5min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 4min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 5min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 2min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 0min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 18min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 30min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
New York, NY
- Average sunshine days in January:
17.9 days - Average sunshine days in February:
13.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
12.6 days - Average sunshine days in May:
11 days - Average sunshine days in June:
9.8 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
10.2 days - Average sunshine days in August:
11.4 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.1 days - Average sunshine days in October:
15.5 days - Average sunshine days in November:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in December:
15.7 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (17.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is June (9.8 days).
Average UV index
New York, NY
The months with the highest UV index are June, July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
New York, NY
The months with the most cloud cover are February, March and December (Cloud cover 47).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 30).
Average visibility
New York, NY
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (9km).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (9km).
New York, New York, USA
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