New York City Weather Month by Month: When to Visit in 2026

Weather is the invisible hand that shapes every trip. Visit New York City at the right time and the city opens up beautifully — perfect light for photos, comfortable temperatures for walking, and an energy in the air that makes everything feel right. Visit at the wrong time and you might spend half your trip sheltering from rain, wilting in heat, or fighting through peak-season crowds.

This month-by-month guide helps you pick the window that matches your priorities.

Climate Overview

Factor	Details
Climate type	Humid subtropical with hot summers, cold winters, and rain year-round
Best months	April to June and September to November
Peak season	December holidays and summer months
Hottest period	June – August
Wettest period	October – February
Coolest period	December – February

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Cool and quiet. Budget-friendly prices and short lines at major attractions.

• Crowd level: Low
• Price level: Low (off-season)

February

Winter continues but spring hints begin. Still uncrowded and affordable.

• Crowd level: Low to moderate
• Price level: Low to moderate

March

Spring emerges with mild temperatures and longer days. Shoulder season begins.

• Crowd level: Moderate
• Price level: Moderate

April

Mild and pleasant with spring blooms. Excellent sightseeing weather before the summer rush.

• Crowd level: Moderate to high
• Price level: Moderate

May

Late spring perfection. Comfortable temperatures and the city in full bloom.

• Crowd level: Moderate to high
• Price level: Moderate to high

June

Warm and generally pleasant. The most popular time for international visitors.

• Crowd level: High
• Price level: High

July

High summer. Long, warm days ideal for outdoor activities, but expect peak pricing and crowds.

• Crowd level: Very high
• Price level: Very high

August

Late summer with warm temperatures and gradually decreasing crowds as September approaches.

• Crowd level: High
• Price level: High

September

Early autumn brings comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent value. A sweet spot for travel.

• Crowd level: Moderate
• Price level: Moderate

October

Autumn is in full effect. Comfortable temperatures, beautiful light, and shoulder-season prices.

• Crowd level: Moderate
• Price level: Moderate

November

Late autumn. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, but low prices and authentic local atmosphere.

• Crowd level: Low to moderate
• Price level: Low

December

Cooler temperatures with variable weather. Off-season prices and fewer crowds.

• Crowd level: Low to moderate
• Price level: Low to moderate (except holiday weeks)

Best Time for Specific Activities

Activity	Best Months	Why
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island	April to June and September to November	Optimal weather for outdoor viewing
Photography	Apr – May, Sep – Oct	Best light conditions, manageable crowds
Budget travel	Nov – Feb	Lowest prices on flights and accommodation
Beach / outdoor	May – Sep	Warmest, driest conditions
Cultural events	Check local calendar	Festivals vary by year
Avoiding crowds	Jan – Mar, Nov	Off-season visitor numbers

What to Pack by Season

Peak Season (April to June and September to November)

• Pack layers — NYC weather can be unpredictable any season
• Carry a compact umbrella for sudden rain showers
• Comfortable walking shoes for all-day sightseeing

Shoulder Season

• Layers that can be added or removed as temperatures shift
• A compact rain jacket or umbrella
• Bring comfortable walking shoes — you will walk 10-plus miles daily

Off-Season

• A warm jacket, scarf, and rain protection. Layers are your best friend.

Pro Tips

1. Book flights 6–8 weeks before peak season for the best prices on April to June and September to November travel.
2. Shoulder season is the sweet spot. The weeks just before and after December holidays and summer months offer 80% of the weather quality at 60% of the price.
3. Check sunrise and sunset times when planning your itinerary — daylight hours vary significantly by month.
4. Use TripGenie to automatically optimize your trip dates based on weather forecasts and pricing data.
5. Weather apps are your friend. Check a 10-day forecast before packing and a daily forecast each morning.

The Bottom Line

There is no objectively "bad" time to visit New York City — each season offers something unique. But knowing what to expect month by month helps you pack right, budget smart, and maximize your time. For most travelers, April to June and September to November hits the sweet spot of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

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