A complete guide to New York City's weather patterns throughout the year. From freezing winters and humid summers to perfect spring and autumn days, learn what to expect each season and exactly what to pack for your NYC trip.
New York's Climate: An Overview
New York City has a humid subtropical climate with four very distinct seasons. The city's position on the Atlantic coast means it is influenced by both continental weather systems from the west and maritime conditions from the ocean, creating a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable climate. Temperatures range from an average low of -3°C in January to an average high of 30°C in July, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The key to enjoying New York in any season is understanding what the weather will throw at you and packing accordingly. Check the New York weather forecast before your trip for the most accurate and up-to-date conditions.
Spring Weather (March – May)
Spring in New York is a season of transition and can be unpredictable. March still feels like winter with averages of 3-10°C and possible snow flurries. April brings a real shift with temperatures of 8-18°C, cherry blossoms appearing in Central Park and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, and occasional warm days that hint at summer. May is reliably pleasant at 14-22°C with longer days and the city in full bloom. Spring rain is common — expect 10-12 rainy days per month — but showers are usually brief. The biggest challenge is the day-to-day variability: a warm 20°C day can be followed by a chilly 8°C day. Layering is the key strategy for spring visits.
Summer Weather (June – August)
New York summers are hot and humid. June eases in with pleasant averages of 20-27°C, but July and August are the peak with highs of 28-33°C and humidity levels that make it feel significantly hotter. Heat waves pushing temperatures above 35°C occur several times each summer. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can be dramatic but usually pass quickly. The urban heat island effect makes Manhattan feel hotter than surrounding areas — concrete and asphalt radiate stored heat well into the evening. Air conditioning is ubiquitous in buildings, subway cars, restaurants, and shops, creating a constant hot-cold contrast that can be jarring. Carry a light layer for aggressively air-conditioned interiors.
Autumn Weather (September – November)
Autumn is New York's most beloved season weather-wise. September still feels like late summer with highs of 22-27°C and comfortable humidity. October brings the famous fall foliage with temperatures dropping to 12-20°C — perfect for walking, and Central Park becomes a spectacular canvas of red, orange, and gold. November cools significantly to 5-12°C and the first real cold snaps arrive. Rain increases in November, and the first snowfall occasionally occurs by month's end. The fall color peak in Central Park typically happens in the last week of October through the first week of November. Autumn days are often crisp and clear with brilliant blue skies.
Winter Weather (December – February)
New York winters are cold and can be harsh. December averages 0-7°C with the holiday season bringing magical energy despite the chill. January is the coldest month at -3 to 4°C, with wind chill between skyscrapers making it feel much colder. February is similar but days slowly begin lengthening. Snowfall averages about 65cm per winter season, with individual storms sometimes dumping 15-30cm in a single event. The famous nor'easter storms can bring blizzard conditions. However, the city functions remarkably well in snow — subways run underground, shops and restaurants stay open, and the sight of a snow-covered Central Park is genuinely magical. Check New York weather daily during winter visits as conditions can change rapidly.
What to Pack: Season by Season
For spring, pack layers: a medium-weight jacket, sweaters, long pants, and a compact umbrella. Include one warm layer for cold snaps and one lighter outfit for warm days. For summer, bring lightweight breathable clothing, comfortable walking sandals or sneakers, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Pack a light cardigan or sweater for air-conditioned spaces. For autumn, a layering system works best: t-shirts, flannel shirts, a warm sweater, and a medium jacket. Bring one waterproof outer layer for November rain. For winter, serious cold-weather gear is essential: an insulated waterproof coat, thermal underlayers, warm hat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots with good grip for snowy sidewalks. Regardless of season, comfortable walking shoes are the single most important item — you will walk far more than you expect in New York.
Microclimates and Urban Weather Effects
New York's dense urban environment creates notable microclimate effects worth knowing about. Manhattan's grid of tall buildings creates wind tunnels, particularly along cross streets and avenues, which can make winter temperatures feel 5-10°C colder than the actual reading. The Midtown canyon effect is most dramatic on avenues running north-south. Central Park creates its own microclimate — often 2-3°C cooler than surrounding streets in summer and slightly warmer in winter. Waterfront areas along the Hudson River, East River, and in Brooklyn can be windier but cooler in summer. The subway system is notoriously hot in summer, sometimes exceeding 38°C on platforms. Understanding these variations through the New York geographic page helps you plan routes that maximize comfort.
Extreme Weather and Preparedness
While rare, New York does experience extreme weather events. Summer heat waves with temperatures above 35°C trigger cooling center openings across the city. Thunderstorms can produce flash flooding in low-lying subway entrances and underpasses. Winter nor'easters can bring heavy snow, high winds, and coastal flooding — the city's emergency alert system provides advance warning. Hurricanes occasionally threaten in late summer and fall, though direct hits are uncommon. The city's infrastructure is well-prepared for most conditions, and the subway system keeps running through almost everything. Sign up for NYC emergency alerts on your phone during your visit. Monitor conditions on the New York weather page and check the local New York time to coordinate your daily plans with weather patterns, as mornings and evenings often have the most comfortable conditions in summer.
