New York City’s climate delivers four dramatic seasons, each with its own personality. Summers are hot and sticky, winters bring snow and biting wind, and the shoulder seasons offer fleeting windows of near-perfect conditions. This month-by-month guide breaks down New York City’s weather in detail so you can plan accordingly.
NYC Climate Overview
New York has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) with strong seasonal variation. Average annual temperature is 13 degrees Celsius (55 Fahrenheit). July is the hottest month averaging 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) with high humidity. January is the coldest at 4 Celsius (39 Fahrenheit) for highs and minus 3 Celsius (27 Fahrenheit) for lows.
Annual rainfall totals about 1,200 millimetres (47 inches), evenly distributed. Snowfall averages about 65 centimetres (25 inches) annually, though totals vary dramatically year to year. The urban heat island effect makes Manhattan noticeably warmer than surrounding areas, particularly at night.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in New York is a transformation. March starts chilly and unpredictable; April brings cherry blossoms and the first warm days; May delivers near-perfect conditions with highs of 22 Celsius (72 Fahrenheit) and the city in full bloom. Spring is also the rainiest season, so pack a waterproof layer. The tourist season ramps up through April and May, with hotel prices climbing accordingly. Central Park in April and May is glorious. This is one of the best seasons for walking the city.
Summer (June to August)
New York summers are hot, humid, and intense. July averages 30 Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) but heatwaves push temperatures above 35 Celsius (95 Fahrenheit). The humidity makes it feel significantly hotter, and the concrete radiates heat well into the night. Afternoon thunderstorms provide brief relief. This is peak tourism season with the highest hotel prices.
The subway platforms can be sweltering; carry water constantly. Despite the heat, summer delivers New York’s best energy: outdoor concerts, rooftop bars, free Shakespeare in the Park, and long evenings that stretch past 8:30 PM. Pack light clothing but note that air conditioning in museums and restaurants can be aggressive; bring a light layer.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is New York’s finest season. September offers warm days (25 Celsius / 77 Fahrenheit) and cooler nights. October is the sweet spot: crisp, sunny days in the high teens Celsius (60s Fahrenheit), fall foliage in Central Park
the city buzzing with cultural energy. November cools rapidly and daylight savings ends, plunging the evenings into darkness by 5 PM. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade dominates late November. Autumn is high season for good reason; book hotels well ahead, especially for October.
Winter (December to February)
New York winters are cold with average highs of 4 to 7 Celsius (39 to 45 Fahrenheit) and lows well below freezing. Snowfall varies; some winters bring multiple blizzards while others are relatively dry. The wind between skyscrapers can be brutal. December is magical with holiday decorations, the Rockefeller Center tree, and festive window displays.
January and February are the coldest months and the low season for tourism, with the best hotel rates of the year (except around New Year’s Eve). A snowy Central Park is one of the city’s most beautiful sights. Pack a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
