Planning a trip to New York City? Be prepared for all kinds of weather! The city experiences all four seasons, with hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall.
In this article, we'll provide you with a month-by-month breakdown of New York City's average temperatures, so you can pack the right clothes for your trip and make the most of your time in the Big Apple.
Now that you know what to expect from the weather in New York City, you can start planning your trip! Be sure to check out our other articles for more tips on visiting the city.
New York City Temperature by Month
Here are 8 important points about New York City's temperatures by month:
- Hot summers
- Cold winters
- Mild spring and fall
- Average January temperature: 34°F
- Average July temperature: 79°F
- Record high temperature: 106°F
- Record low temperature: -15°F
- Precipitation year-round
Now that you know what to expect from the weather in New York City, you can pack the right clothes for your trip and make the most of your time in the Big Apple.
Hot summers
New York City's summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures in July and August reaching the upper 80s (°F). The city can also experience heat waves, with temperatures soaring into the 90s and even 100s.
- High humidity: The high humidity in New York City during the summer months can make the heat feel even more oppressive. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade to avoid heatstroke.
- Air conditioning: Most buildings in New York City are air-conditioned, so you can escape the heat by spending time indoors. However, it's important to note that air conditioning can be expensive, so be sure to factor that into your budget when planning your trip.
- Outdoor activities: There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in New York City during the summer months, such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. However, it's important to be aware of the heat and take precautions to stay safe.
- Extreme heat: New York City can experience extreme heat waves during the summer months, with temperatures reaching 100°F or higher. If you're visiting New York City during the summer, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for hot weather.
Despite the heat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy New York City in the summer. Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You can also take advantage of the city's many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Cold winters
New York City's winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures in January and February hovering around the freezing mark. The city can also experience blizzards and snowstorms, which can dump several feet of snow on the city in a matter of hours.
Here are some of the things you need to know about New York City's cold winters:
Dress warmly: Be sure to pack warm clothing, such as a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf, if you're visiting New York City during the winter months. Layering your clothing is also a good idea, so you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
Be prepared for snow: New York City can receive several feet of snow during a single storm. If you're visiting the city during the winter, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for snowy conditions. Wear boots or other waterproof shoes, and be careful walking on icy sidewalks.
Take advantage of the winter activities: New York City offers plenty of fun winter activities, such as ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. You can also visit the city's many museums, art galleries, and theaters, which are all open year-round.
Stay safe: Be sure to take precautions to stay safe during the winter months in New York City. Avoid walking on icy sidewalks, and be careful of snow and ice falling from buildings. If you're driving, be sure to have snow tires and an emergency kit in your car.
Despite the cold weather, New York City is still a magical place to visit in the winter. The city is decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy.
Mild spring and fall
New York City's spring and fall seasons are mild and temperate, with average temperatures in the 50s and 60s (°F). These seasons are ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the outdoors.
Here are some of the things you can enjoy during New York City's mild spring and fall seasons:
Stroll through Central Park: Central Park is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Manhattan. It's the perfect place to take a walk, have a picnic, or rent a rowboat on the lake. In the spring, the park is ablaze with color as the flowers bloom. In the fall, the leaves change color, creating a stunning display.
Visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is another great place to enjoy the outdoors. The garden features a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a children's garden. There are also many events and activities held at the garden throughout the year.
Take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is a historic bridge that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. It's a great place to take a walk or bike ride and enjoy the views of the city. In the spring and fall, the weather is perfect for a leisurely stroll across the bridge.
See a show on Broadway: Broadway is home to some of the best theater in the world. There are shows for all tastes, from musicals to plays to comedies. In the spring and fall, the weather is mild enough to enjoy a night out at the theater without having to worry about being too hot or too cold.
New York City's mild spring and fall seasons are the perfect time to visit the city and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Average January temperature: 34°F
New York City's average January temperature is 34°F (1°C). This means that the city experiences cold winters, with average temperatures below freezing for much of the month. However, there can be significant variation in the weather from day to day, with temperatures sometimes reaching into the 40s or even 50s (°F).
Here are some things to keep in mind about New York City's January weather:
Dress warmly: Be sure to pack warm clothing, such as a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf, if you're visiting New York City in January. Layering your clothing is also a good idea, so you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
Be prepared for snow: New York City can receive several feet of snow during a single storm. If you're visiting the city in January, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for snowy conditions. Wear boots or other waterproof shoes, and be careful walking on icy sidewalks.
Take advantage of the winter activities: New York City offers plenty of fun winter activities in January, such as ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. You can also visit the city's many museums, art galleries, and theaters, which are all open year-round.
Stay safe: Be sure to take precautions to stay safe during the winter months in New York City. Avoid walking on icy sidewalks, and be careful of snow and ice falling from buildings. If you're driving, be sure to have snow tires and an emergency kit in your car.
Despite the cold weather, New York City is still a magical place to visit in January. The city is decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy.
Average July temperature: 79°F
New York City's average July temperature is 79°F (26°C). This means that the city experiences hot and humid summers, with average temperatures in the upper 80s (°F) and sometimes reaching into the 90s (°F).
- High humidity: The high humidity in New York City during the summer months can make the heat feel even more oppressive. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade to avoid heatstroke.
- Air conditioning: Most buildings in New York City are air-conditioned, so you can escape the heat by spending time indoors. However, it's important to note that air conditioning can be expensive, so be sure to factor that into your budget when planning your trip.
- Outdoor activities: There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in New York City during the summer months, such as swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. However, it's important to be aware of the heat and take precautions to stay safe.
- Extreme heat: New York City can experience extreme heat waves during the summer months, with temperatures reaching 100°F or higher. If you're visiting New York City during the summer, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for hot weather.
Despite the heat, there are plenty of ways to enjoy New York City in July. Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You can also take advantage of the city's many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters.
Record high temperature: 106°F
New York City's record high temperature is 106°F (41°C), which was recorded on July 9, 1936. This extreme heat is rare, but it can happen during heat waves in the summer months.
Here are some things to keep in mind about New York City's record high temperature:
Stay hydrated: It's important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, as these can actually dehydrate you.
Take breaks in the shade: If you're going to be spending time outdoors, be sure to take breaks in the shade to cool down. You can also use a fan or air conditioner to stay cool.
Wear loose, lightweight clothing: Wearing loose, lightweight clothing can help you stay cool in hot weather. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, as this can trap heat.
Be aware of the signs of heatstroke: Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that can occur when your body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Symptoms of heatstroke include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion. If you think someone is experiencing heatstroke, call 911 immediately.
By taking precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy New York City even during the hottest days of the year.
Record low temperature: -15°F
New York City's record low temperature is -15°F (-26°C), which was recorded on February 9, 1934. This extreme cold is rare, but it can happen during cold snaps in the winter months.
- Dress warmly: Be sure to pack warm clothing, such as a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf, if you're visiting New York City during the winter months. Layering your clothing is also a good idea, so you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
- Be prepared for snow: New York City can receive several feet of snow during a single storm. If you're visiting the city during the winter, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for snowy conditions. Wear boots or other waterproof shoes, and be careful walking on icy sidewalks.
- Take precautions against frostbite and hypothermia: Frostbite and hypothermia are serious medical conditions that can occur when your body is exposed to extreme cold. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, tingling, and pain in the affected area. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, slurred speech, and confusion. If you think someone is experiencing frostbite or hypothermia, call 911 immediately.
- Stay indoors: If possible, stay indoors during extremely cold weather. If you must go outside, be sure to cover your head, neck, and hands. You can also use a scarf or face mask to protect your face from the cold.
By taking precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy New York City even during the coldest days of the year.
Precipitation year-round
New York City receives precipitation year-round, with an average annual rainfall of 48 inches (122 cm). The city experiences all types of precipitation, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
Here are some things to keep in mind about New York City's precipitation:
Rain: New York City receives rain throughout the year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in the summer months. During the summer, it's common to experience thunderstorms, which can sometimes be severe.
Snow: New York City can receive several feet of snow during a single storm. The city typically experiences its first snowfall in December, and the last snowfall in March. However, it's not uncommon for snow to fall outside of these months.
Sleet and hail: Sleet and hail are less common than rain and snow in New York City, but they can still occur. Sleet is a mixture of rain and snow, while hail is frozen rain.
Be prepared for all types of precipitation: When visiting New York City, be sure to pack clothing and footwear that is appropriate for all types of weather. You may also want to bring an umbrella or raincoat in case of rain.
Despite the precipitation, New York City is a great place to visit year-round. The city's many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, are open rain or shine.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about New York City's weather by month:
Question 1: What is the best time of year to visit New York City?
Answer 1: The best time to visit New York City is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and comfortable. However, New York City is a great place to visit year-round, as each season has its own unique charm.
Question 2: What is the weather like in New York City in the summer?
Answer 2: New York City summers are hot and humid, with average temperatures in the upper 80s (°F). The city can also experience heat waves, with temperatures reaching into the 90s and even 100s (°F).
Question 3: What is the weather like in New York City in the winter?
Answer 3: New York City winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures in the 30s (°F). The city can also experience blizzards and snowstorms, which can dump several feet of snow on the city in a matter of hours.
Question 4: What is the weather like in New York City in the spring?
Answer 4: New York City springs are mild and temperate, with average temperatures in the 50s and 60s (°F). The city experiences all types of precipitation in the spring, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
Question 5: What is the weather like in New York City in the fall?
Answer 5: New York City falls are mild and temperate, with average temperatures in the 50s and 60s (°F). The city experiences all types of precipitation in the fall, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
Question 6: What should I pack for a trip to New York City?
Answer 6: Be sure to pack clothing and footwear that is appropriate for the weather conditions you are expecting. In the summer, pack light, comfortable clothing and sunscreen. In the winter, pack warm clothing, such as a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and scarf.
Question 7: Are there any special events or festivals that happen in New York City during certain months?
Answer 7: Yes, there are many special events and festivals that happen in New York City throughout the year. Some popular events include the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in November, the New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, and the SummerStage concert series in Central Park.
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These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about New York City's weather by month. For more information, be sure to check the National Weather Service website or the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation website.
Now that you know what to expect from the weather in New York City, you can start planning your trip! Be sure to check out our other articles for more tips on visiting the city.
Tips
Here are a few tips for planning your trip to New York City by month:
Tip 1: Check the weather forecast before you pack. This will help you pack the appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather conditions you are expecting.
Tip 2: Be prepared for all types of weather. New York City can experience all four seasons in a single day, so it's important to pack clothing and footwear that you can layer. This way, you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
Tip 3: Take advantage of the city's many indoor attractions. New York City has many indoor attractions, such as museums, art galleries, and theaters, that are open year-round. This is a great way to escape the heat or cold and still enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Tip 4: Be prepared for crowds. New York City is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months. If you're visiting during peak season, be sure to book your hotel and flights in advance.
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By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to New York City, no matter what time of year you visit.
Now that you know what to expect from the weather in New York City and how to plan your trip accordingly, you're ready to start exploring the Big Apple!
Conclusion
New York City is a great place to visit year-round, but the weather can vary significantly from month to month. By planning your trip according to the weather, you can make the most of your time in the Big Apple.
Here is a summary of the main points to keep in mind:
- New York City experiences all four seasons, with hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall.
- The average temperature in January is 34°F, while the average temperature in July is 79°F.
- New York City receives precipitation year-round, with an average annual rainfall of 48 inches.
- The city is prone to extreme weather events, such as heat waves, blizzards, and thunderstorms.
No matter what time of year you visit New York City, be sure to pack clothing and footwear that is appropriate for the weather conditions. You should also be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months.
With its many world-class attractions, New York City is a city that has something to offer everyone. Whether you're interested in history, art, culture, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the city, you're sure to have a memorable experience.