New York City (NY) Weather and Climate: A Comprehensive Guide
New York's climate is very changeable with moderate precipitation all over the year, some heat waves in summer and very cool weather in winter and even in early spring. Snow is concentrated in winter months.
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.
Average maximum day and minimum night temperature
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 in July to a chilly 4°C in the coolest month, February.
Nights are cooler, with lows often dropping to around -3°C during the colder months.Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Precipitation and rainy days
New York City is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1276 mm. New York City offers a pleasant mix of wetter and slightly drier months. The difference in precipitation between June (138 mm) and November (73 mm) is not too significant, making the climate enjoyable for visitors and residents alike.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine over the year
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
Average water temperature
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 4°C in February to 23°C in August.
Water temperature over the year
Average humidity
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
Average wind speed
The mean wind speed varies between 5 m/s and 7 m/s throughout the year. It is lowest in May, June, July, August, September and October and highest during March.
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Forecast for New York City (NY)
Select a Month of Interest
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
The best time of year to visit New York City in the United States of America
During the months of May and September you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20°C and 26°C.Other facts from our historical weather data:
The hottest season / summer takes place in June, July, August and September.
July has an average maximum temperature of 30°C and is the warmest month of the year.
The coldest month is February with an average maximum temperature of 4°C.
June tops the wettest month list with 138 mm of rainfall.
November is the driest month with 73 mm of precipitation.
July is the sunniest month with an average of 271 hours of sunshine.
No idea where to travel to this year? We have a tool that recommends destinations based on your ideal conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.
