New York City Weather by Month: What to Expect Year-Round

New York City weather is as iconic as its skyline — vibrant, dramatic, and full of surprises. It’s no wonder we see so much of it represented in iconic movies and TV shows. And if you’re starting your adventure in the Flatiron District? It gets even better!

The bustling heart of Manhattan puts you steps away from everything: parks, rooftop bars, cozy cafes, and unforgettable views, all shaped by New York City weather by month. Whether you’re wandering Madison Square Park, browsing Eataly, or heading downtown to catch a ferry, knowing what the weather’s going to look like will help you plan smarter and experience more. Let’s dive in!

Top photo: Taken while walking through the Flatiron District in NYC, view of the Clock Tower. 

Understanding NYC’s Four Seasons

New York City’s unique place by the Atlantic Ocean gives it a classic four-season climate we can see represented in many movies and shows:

• Winter (Dec-Feb): This time of year is known for cold and festive days. Feel the magic around Flatiron’s sparkling plazas.
• Spring (Mar-May): Weather goes from cool to warm, with Madison Square Park blooming into a floral wonderland.
• Summer (Jun-Aug): New York City weather turns hot, humid, and buzzing with Flatiron rooftop brunches and farmers’ markets.
• Fall (Sep-Nov): Leaves become crisp, trees turn colorful, and it is unbeatable weather for walking tours and fall festivals near Flatiron.

Month-by-Month NYC Weather Guide

January Weather in NYC

• Record High: 72°F (22°C)
• Record Low: -6°F (-21°C)
• Average High: 40°F (4°C)
• Average Low: 28°F (-2°C)
• Average Precipitation: 3.64 in

February Weather in NYC

• Record High: 78°F (26°C)
• Record Low: -15°F (-26°C)
• Average High: 42°F (6°C)
• Average Low: 29°F (-2°C)
• Average Precipitation: 3.19 in

March Weather in NYC

• Record High: 86°F (30°C)
• Record Low: 3°F (-16°C)
• Average High: 50°F (10°C)
• Average Low: 35°F (2°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.29 in

April Weather in NYC

• Record High: 96°F (36°C)
• Record Low: 12°F (-11°C)
• Average High: 62°F (17°C)
• Average Low: 45°F (7°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.09 in

May Weather in NYC

• Record High: 99°F (37°C)
• Record Low: 32°F (0°C)
• Average High: 71°F (22°C)
• Average Low: 55°F (13°C)
• Average Precipitation: 3.96 in

June Weather in NYC

• Record High: 101°F (38°C)
• Record Low: 44°F (7°C)
• Average High: 80°F (27°C)
• Average Low: 64°F (18°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.54 in

July Weather in NYC

• Record High: 106°F (41°C)
• Record Low: 52°F (11°C)
• Average High: 85°F (29°C)
• Average Low: 70°F (21°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.60 in

August Weather in NYC

• Record High: 104°F (40°C)
• Record Low: 50°F (10°C)
• Average High: 84°F (29°C)
• Average Low: 69°F (21°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.56 in

September Weather in NYC

• Record High: 102°F (39°C)
• Record Low: 39°F (4°C)
• Average High: 76°F (24°C)
• Average Low: 62°F (17°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.31 in

October Weather in NYC

• Record High: 94°F (34°C)
• Record Low: 28°F (-2°C)
• Average High: 65°F (18°C)
• Average Low: 51°F (11°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.38 in

November Weather in NYC

• Record High: 84°F (29°C)
• Record Low: 5°F (-15°C)
• Average High: 54°F (12°C)
• Average Low: 42°F (6°C)
• Average Precipitation: 3.58 in

December Weather in NYC

• Record High: 75°F (24°C)
• Record Low: -13°F (-25°C)
• Average High: 45°F (7°C)
• Average Low: 33°F (1°C)
• Average Precipitation: 4.38 in

Climate normals and records are based on Central Park, New York, using NOAA/National Weather Service data. Normals are for 1991–2020; records date back to 1869.

What Kind of Weather to Expect Each Month

We all know that the weather can be an unpredictable thing, but that doesn’t mean we can’t prepare anyway. Let’s have a brief look at what each month offers to New Yorkers.

January weather: ❄️ January is typically one of NYC’s coldest months, with average highs around 40°F and lows around 28°F. Snow, rain, wind, and occasional milder spells are all possible.
Pro Tip: Cozy up inside Rizzoli Bookstore or Birch Coffee at Flatiron District after a chilly Madison Square Park walk!

February weather: 🌨️ February is typically cold, and snow is possible, although conditions can vary considerably from year to year.
Pro Tip: New York is all about art and culture. Be sure to check the art displays around Flatiron Plaza—you might spot an incredible winter installation or other amazing pop-ups.

March weather: 🌬️ March can start cold and blustery, while temperatures generally trend milder as spring approaches, and it’s sunnier by the end of the month.
Pro Tip: On colder days, warm up at Eataly’s rooftop AMALFI Rooftop by BIRRERIA, which offers Italian coastal-inspired food and views of the Flatiron Building.

April weather: The city welcomes Spring and explodes with greenery and blooms. Get ready to enjoy longer days!
Pro Tip: Enjoy the Flatiron District like a local and head to Madison Square Park to see the cherry blossoms while sipping a coffee from Daily Provisions.

May weather: 🌼 Enjoy the city that never sleeps as outdoor life returns in full swing after the winter months.
Pro Tip: Spring brings seasonal public art and installations to Flatiron & NoMad. Check the neighborhood’s events calendar for current installations and dates.

June weather: ☀️ Enjoy the mildest weeks of summer!  June brings warm, increasingly humid weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining.
Pro Tip: Enjoy the best of New York City weather at 230 Fifth Rooftop Garden for beautiful Flatiron sunsets.

July weather: This month is the height of summer in New York City. The weather gets hot, humid, and bustling with energy.
Pro Tip: Cool off after a long day of exploring with authentic gelato from Eataly, or cool off at MoMath, the National Museum of Mathematics on Sixth Avenue.

August weather: The last stretch of summer in New York City weather; days get steamy and ripe with summer produce.
Pro Tip: Do it like a local: grab picnic stuff at the Union Square Greenmarket and people-watch at Madison Square Park.

September weather: I love September weather. It often brings warm days and gradually cooler evenings, making it a popular month for exploring on foot.
Pro Tip: Just like in Spring, it’s great to do some exploration on foot. Take a Flatiron architecture walking tour while the air is still mild.

October weather: Who doesn’t love spooky fall vibes? Golden days are made colorful by leaves, and we can enjoy a festive vibe.
Pro Tip: Check the Flatiron NoMad events calendar for fall festivals, seasonal markets, public art, and neighborhood events happening during your visit.

November weather: 🧣 New York City weather begins to take a turn into crisp and chilly with the first hints of winter.
Pro Tip: Avoid the December crowds and explore Fifth Avenue holiday window displays just a few blocks from Flatiron. 

December weather: 🎄 In spite of lowering cold temperatures, the city is bright and bursting with holiday magic.
Pro Tip: Deciding on how to start your holiday magic itinerary can be difficult. As a local, I recommend you start in Flatiron and visit the Union Square Holiday Market, then stroll north toward Bryant Park’s Winter Village!

How to Pack for NYC Weather

Each season is going to need different items, so these are just your general must-haves on hand. Build your own packing list, but make sure not to forget this stuff.

• Winter: Winter in NYC can get pretty cold, so make sure to have at least one heavy coat, scarf, gloves, and boots that could double as snow boots just in case.
• Spring: You don’t need much to enjoy springy New York weather. Your clothing should be mostly light layers with a light jacket for the evenings, waterproof shoes for when it rains, and an umbrella just in case.
• Summer: As a local, trust me: it gets hot. Your best bet is breathable clothes! Also, pack good sunscreen and comfy shoes. I recommend a reusable water bottle to keep your hydration up!
• Fall: Fall days see temperatures go back to chilly. A light jacket can be the perfect wild card, with stylish boots and cozy scarves to complete your exploring outfits.

(Flatiron District Tip: No matter the season you come in, always  make sure to bring good walking shoes—you’ll want to explore on foot at least a little bit!)

Fun Things to Do in NYC by Season

I love New York so much, and one of the best parts of this sprawling city, beyond the Flatiron District, is that there is always something to do. Here are some of my favorite activities per season.

• Winter: Chilly weather in New York calls for cozy programs with hot chocolate or hot foods. Some rooftop bars offer heated winter seating; for example, 230 Fifth has heated igloos during the colder months.
• Spring: Is there anything better than spring weather? The sun is out, and greenery is vibrant again. Locals enjoy unique food at farmers’ markets; there are outdoor concerts (some are even free!), and sidewalk brunches pop up everywhere through town.
• Summer: Summers in New York are made up of long days with beautiful nights. Consider booking a sunset cruise to see the city from a different point of view, getting rooftop drinks with friends, or attending outdoor movie nights in one of Flatiron District’s parks.
• Fall: New York’s fall months give everyone a chance to enjoy life a little slower. Art installations pop up around town, hit pumpkin patches for seasonal fun, or enjoy cooler weather by taking walking tours.

What to Do During Extreme Weather Events

Extreme weather events happen everywhere; they’re not just part of the New York City weather calendar. And even if we know when they’re happening, here’s what to do if you get caught up in something.

• Heatwaves: When it is really hot, consider escaping to refrigerated indoor spaces like MoMath or shaded parks like Madison Square Park. There are also lots of indoor rooftop bars with AC. 
• Nor’easters: Rainy weather is perfect for people-watching from sheltered spots. Snuggle up in a cozy café with delicious drinks or hang out in an indoor art space.
• Hurricanes/tropical storms: Hurricane season runs from June through November in the US, with the Atlantic season officially peaking around September. Monitor forecasts if you’re visiting during hurricane season.

After all this information, it is hard to form any final thoughts on New York City weather by month. But the Flatiron District makes the perfect home base for any New York City adventure, no matter when, and knowing the New York City weather by month can shape the rhythm of your days here. 

Whether you’re hoping to catch snowflakes in winter or wander all the best art fairs in spring, Flatiron always gives you a front-row seat to it all. And if you want to explore beyond the Flatiron District, it is so easy to catch a subway ride to anywhere else in NYC.

Plan smart, pack well, and soak up every New York minute. Flatiron is waiting for you! ✨