New York City Weather in January

With daytime temperatures of 4°C (39°F) and nighttime lows of -2°C (28°F), January in New York City brings low temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of snow/rainfall is typical. Around 94 mm (3.7 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in New York City in January

Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 12 days of snow/rain are anticipated, with 94 mm (3.7 in) on average. Individual showers can be quite heavy this month. A proper umbrella or rain jacket is worth having.

Temperature in New York City in January

Expect highs of 4°C (39°F) in New York City in January, with nights dropping to around -2°C (28°F). The winter season is characteristic of January. Cold conditions tend to persist from morning through evening, so be prepared for winter weather. With overnight lows of -2°C (28°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. This is usually the coldest month of the year, so be sure to prepare with plenty of winter gear.

Sunshine in New York City in January

With about 161 hours of sunshine, the area enjoys a nice balance of sun and overcast, creating a pleasant environment.

Wind Speed in New York City in January

Wind speeds average 6 m/s (12 knots) during January. At this speed, expect strong winds that make large branches move and create some resistance when walking. Since this is an average, some days have fresh winds while others have strong breezes that can make umbrellas tricky to control.

Average water temperature in January

At 6°C (43°F), the water is very cold. Most people find it too uncomfortable for anything beyond a brief wade.

January in New York City has its charm, but if you're looking for destinations with pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, our weather planner can help you explore other options in the world.