Last updated October 13, 2026
New York has four real seasons: cold winters, hot and humid summers, and mild springs and falls. At Central Park, January averages a high of 39.5°F and a low of 27.8°F, and July averages 84.8°F and 70.2°F, according to the National Weather Service’s 1991–2020 normals. Snowfall averages about 30 inches a year but swings widely from one winter to the next. Winters are noticeably milder than Chicago’s. From October 1 to May 31, city law requires landlords to keep apartments heated.
What is the weather like each month in New York?
National Weather Service averages for Central Park, 1991–2020:
| Month | Average high | Average low |
|---|---|---|
| January | 39.5°F | 27.8°F |
| February | 42.2°F | 29.6°F |
| March | 49.9°F | 35.8°F |
| April | 61.8°F | 45.6°F |
| May | 71.5°F | 55.0°F |
| June | 79.7°F | 64.4°F |
| July | 84.8°F | 70.2°F |
| August | 83.4°F | 68.9°F |
| September | 76.3°F | 62.3°F |
| October | 64.5°F | 51.4°F |
| November | 54.1°F | 42.0°F |
| December | 44.4°F | 33.9°F |
How cold are New York winters?
Cold, but rarely extreme. Daytime highs in January and February are usually around 40°F, with nights below freezing. Temperatures below 0°F are very rare at Central Park; the record low is −15°F, set in February 1934. What makes winter harder than the numbers suggest is wind between tall buildings and the amount of time New Yorkers spend walking and waiting outdoors.
Snow is unpredictable. The long-term average is about 30 inches a year, but some winters bring very little and others bring one or two big storms that shut down parts of the city for a day.
How hot are New York summers?
Hot and humid. July averages a high of 84.8°F, and nights stay around 70°F, so the city doesn’t cool off much after dark. Heat waves in the 90s are common, and subway platforms can feel even hotter. The record high at Central Park is 106°F, set in July 1936.
Many older apartments don’t have central air conditioning, so window units are common. Ask about cooling before you sign a lease, and check whether the building allows window units.
What does New York law require for apartment heat?
From October 1 to May 31, city law sets minimum indoor temperatures:
- Daytime (6am–10pm): at least 68°F inside whenever it’s below 55°F outside.
- Overnight (10pm–6am): at least 62°F inside, regardless of the outdoor temperature.
- Hot water: at least 120°F, all year.
If your apartment is too cold, tell your landlord first, then report it to the city through 311. The city’s housing agency, HPD, inspects heat complaints and can make emergency repairs if a landlord doesn’t act.
Do hurricanes and coastal flooding affect New York?
Sometimes. Tropical storms and strong coastal storms can bring flooding to low-lying waterfront neighborhoods, especially in late summer and fall. If you’re considering an apartment near the water or on a ground floor or basement level, check whether it’s in a flood zone and whether renters insurance covers flood damage (it usually doesn’t).
How does New York weather compare with Chicago?
| New York (Central Park) | Chicago (O’Hare) | |
|---|---|---|
| January high / low | 39.5°F / 27.8°F | 31.6°F / 18.8°F |
| July high / low | 84.8°F / 70.2°F | 84.5°F / 66.4°F |
| Average annual snowfall | ~30 inches | 38.4 inches |
New York winters are about 8°F warmer than Chicago’s and bring less snow. Summers are similar in daytime heat, but New York nights are warmer and more humid.
What clothes do you need for New York?
- A warm winter coat, plus a hat, gloves and a scarf for windy days.
- Waterproof boots for slush and puddles at street corners.
- A compact umbrella that fits in a bag.
- Light, breathable clothes for humid summers.
- Layers. Subways and stores are often warm in winter and cold in summer.
Frequently asked questions about New York weather
How cold does it get in New York in winter?
January averages a high of 39.5°F and a low of 27.8°F at Central Park. Below-zero temperatures are very rare.
How much snow does New York get?
About 30 inches a year on average, though it varies a lot from winter to winter.
When is heat season in New York City?
October 1 to May 31. Landlords must keep apartments at least 68°F during the day when it’s below 55°F outside, and at least 62°F overnight.
Is New York colder than Chicago?
No. New York winters are about 8°F warmer on average and less snowy.
Sources
- Temperature normals: National Weather Service, Central Park 1991–2020 normals (highs); (lows)
- Snowfall and records: Climate of New York City
- Heat season rules: NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development; 6sqft (hot water)
- Chicago comparison: National Weather Service Chicago, O’Hare 1991–2020 normals
