New York City (NY) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit New York City.
Climate overview of New York City
For many people summer should be avoided. Humidity and high temperatures may turn July and August into very uncomfortable months. But, contradictory, these are also the most visited months for New York.
New York City Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in New York City — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in New York City
Visitors to New York City can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 30°C (86°F) in July to a chilly 4°C (39°F) in the coolest month, February.
Nights vary from 22°C (72°F) in July to around -3°C (27°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in New York City
New York City is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1276 mm (50 in). New York City offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between the wettest month June (138 mm (5.4 in)) and the driest month November (73 mm (2.9 in)) is not too significant. For more details, please visit our New York City Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in New York City
For those who appreciate different seasons, New York City serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 9.0 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 4.7 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Water Temperature in New York City
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 4°C (39°F) in February to 23°C (73°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in New York City by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in New York City.
The city experiences its highest humidity in September, reaching 68%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 55%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in New York City
The mean wind speed varies between 5 m/s (10 knots) and 7 m/s (14 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in May, June, July, August, September and October and highest during March. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit New York City
The weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 97 mm (3.8 in) and 138 mm (5.4 in). Wondering where to travel based on your weather preferences? Our recommendation tool helps you find destinations with your ideal climate conditions. Use our weather planner to find your perfect destination.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in New York City
What is the best time to visit New York City?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in New York City. In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in New York City?
Daytime highs range from 4°C (39°F) in February to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -3°C (27°F) to 22°C (72°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does New York City get?
Annual rainfall is around 1276 mm (50 in). June is the wettest month with 138 mm (5.4 in), while November is the driest with 73 mm (2.9 in).
How sunny is New York City?
New York City receives around 2,544 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 271 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 141 hours. Overall, New York City enjoys abundant sunshine.
New York City 3-Day Forecast
New York City (NY) 3-Day Forecast
New York City on the map
New York City is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
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