Weather in New York in August

How August compares

August is the 2nd warmest month of the year in New York and ranks 95th of 134 destinations we compare for August - see where else is hot in August. Within United States it is 6th of 6 (United States in August). Against London's average high of 21.4°C in August, New York is 6.1°C warmer by day and 5.8°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in August

The typical August day in New York peaks at 27.5°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.5°C or more. About 79% of days top 25°C and 1 in 5 pass 30°C. Nights average 19.3°C; one night in ten drops to 15.9°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest August day here reached 37.2°C (2001-08-09) and the coldest night 12.0°C (2000-08-21).

Rain in August

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 11 days with 1 mm or more, 104 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest August was 2011 with 290 mm, the driest 2005 with 23 mm. Humidity averages 73%.

Sea temperature in August

The sea averages 23.1°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 22.0°C to 24.4°C. This is the warmest the sea gets here all year.

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.4 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 13.6 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:06 and sets about 19:55 local time in mid-August. Average cloud cover is 53%.

Is August a good time to visit New York?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for New York on our scoring are August, July, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jun, Jul, Aug.

Expect proper summer heat, not London warmth

New York in August calls for more heat-conscious planning than a typical London summer break. Days reach 30°C on 20% of occasions, while the hotter end of the month can bring 31.5°C or more. Humidity averages 73%, so walking around may feel sticky rather than simply warm. Put your more active outdoor plans earlier in the day and keep midday flexible for breaks indoors. Light, breathable clothes make more sense than heavy layers, though sun protection and drinking water deserve space in your day bag. This month suits travellers happy with heat; it is less comfortable if you prefer cool weather for long walks.

Keep outdoor plans flexible

Rain is a real consideration rather than a reason to rule August out. About 10 days receive measurable rain, so a holiday built entirely around being outdoors leaves little room to adapt. Carry a compact umbrella or a light waterproof that will not feel too heavy in warm weather. There is still about 6.4 hours of sunshine a day within 13.6 hours of daylight, giving you room to shift plans without treating every cloudy spell as a lost day. The useful approach is to check the forecast as you go and avoid making every outdoor activity dependent on a fixed time.

Pack for warm evenings, with a layer in reserve

Evenings are generally warm enough that winter-weight clothing would be unnecessary: the average night low is 19.3°C. A light layer is still sensible, since the cooler nights can fall to 15.9°C or below. For daytime clothing, favour loose fabrics and shoes you can comfortably walk in during hot weather. If swimming is part of your plans, the sea averages 23.1°C, warm enough for a swim rather than a bracing dip. That adds an option beyond hot city streets, although sea warmth does not guarantee a dry or sunny day. Pack swimwear, but keep the timing dependent on the local forecast and conditions.