Best Time to Visit New York City: The Weather Month by Month

The weather in New York swings between two extremes over the course of the year: bitter cold and serious heat. The in-between seasons, spring and fall, are the most pleasant times to visit the city.

In spring and fall the weather is manageable, the parks are gorgeous, and everything costs less because it's low season (read which is the best month of the year to visit New York, where I walk you through the pros and cons of each month).

Spring in New York

March 21 to June 21

The weather in New York during spring makes it one of the best times of year to travel. Toward the end of March the average temperature sits between 50 and 59°F, and by June it climbs to somewhere between 77 and 86°F.

By April and May spring is in full swing and the city is buzzing. Along with the flowers, their scents and colors, fewer tourists show up, so everything is easier in spring.

In what to do in spring in New York you'll find ideas and plans for a trip at this time of year.

Summer in New York

June 21 to September 21

During a New York summer the average temperature is around 82°F, and there are days in July and August when the thermometer tops 104°F!

Keep in mind that New York sits right by the ocean, so humidity is extremely high and makes it feel even hotter.

My advice: pack light clothes and breathable shoes, plenty of sunscreen, and never leave without a full water bottle. Read everything you can do in summer in New York.

Fall in New York

September 21 to December 21

The weather in New York in fall is still mild, there are fewer tourists and plenty to do. Along with spring, it's one of the friendliest seasons to visit the city.

The trees change color as the year winds down and temperatures keep dropping, but through September and October it's still very pleasant for walking.

There are also way too many things to do in fall in New York. For me, it's the ideal time of year to travel.

Winter in New York

December 21 to March 21

In winter the average temperature ranges from about 36°F down to 21°F, with extremely cold days when it can drop to 14°F.

New York in winter is charming, especially the Christmas season, full of lights and evergreens. That said, if you're not used to the cold and don't own good winter gear, you're better off visiting New York at another time.

For the brave, here's everything you can do in winter in New York.

What is the best month to visit New York?

I put together a detailed guide to what happens in New York month by month, so you have more information when picking the dates for your dream trip.