Weather in New York in January

How January compares

January is the 12th warmest month of the year in New York and ranks 131st of 134 destinations we compare for January - see where else is hot in January. Within United States it is 6th of 6 (United States in January). Against London's average high of 7.4°C in January, New York is 4.2°C cooler by day and 6.8°C cooler at night.

Daytime and night-time in January

The typical January day in New York peaks at 3.2°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 10.5°C or more. Days over 25°C are rare. Nights average -4.6°C; one night in ten drops to -12.3°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings - it is genuinely cool after dark. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest January day here reached 20.0°C (2007-01-06) and the coldest night -21.5°C (1994-01-19).

Rain in January

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 9 days with 1 mm or more, 82 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest January was 1996 with 173 mm, the driest 2010 with 43 mm. Humidity averages 69%.

Sea temperature in January

The sea averages 4.9°C - too cold for most (under 18°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 3.8°C to 6.2°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (23.1°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 4.0 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 9.4 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 07:18 and sets about 16:52 local time in mid-January. Average cloud cover is 58%.

Is January a good time to visit New York?

January is not the strongest month here: cool days and frequent rain. The best months for New York on our scoring are August, July, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jun, Jul, Aug.

Expect cold days and much colder evenings

The daytime average is above freezing, but that does not make January mild. The coldest nights can reach around -12°C or lower, so pack for conditions well below the average rather than relying on a lighter UK winter coat. A warm coat, insulating layers, gloves, a hat and footwear with good grip are sensible choices. Milder days can reach around 11°C or more, making removable layers useful, but do not build your plans around that warmth. Put longer outdoor stretches in the warmer part of the day and keep evening journeys straightforward. January suits travellers who can comfortably alternate time outside with indoor stops.

Keep outdoor plans flexible and use the daylight

Rain is another catch: January has about 9 rainy days, so cold is not the only reason to bring protective clothing. A waterproof outer layer and shoes that keep your feet dry will be more useful than packing only for crisp, dry weather. There are about 9.4 hours of daylight, with roughly 4 hours of sunshine, so prioritise outdoor plans during daylight rather than leaving them until late afternoon. Keep an indoor alternative ready for wet spells instead of committing every day to walking. If warmth is central to your holiday, January is a poor fit; June, July and August are better months to consider, though January can work if you accept its weather limits.