Weather in New York in July

How July compares

July is the 1st warmest month of the year in New York and ranks 67th of 134 destinations we compare for July - see where else is hot in July. Within United States it is 5th of 6 (United States in July). Against London's average high of 21.8°C in July, New York is 6.7°C warmer by day and 6.4°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in July

The typical July day in New York peaks at 28.5°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 32.9°C or more. About 86% of days top 25°C and 1 in 3 pass 30°C. Nights average 19.9°C; one night in ten drops to 16.6°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest July day here reached 38.5°C (2011-07-22) and the coldest night 13.5°C (2009-07-10).

Rain in July

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 July was 2004 with 194 mm, the driest 2002 with 26 mm. Humidity averages 71%.

Sea temperature in July

The sea averages 22.3°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 20.9°C to 23.7°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (23.1°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 6.7 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 14.6 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 05:38 and sets about 20:26 local time in mid-July. Average cloud cover is 54%.

Is July 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 more heat than a London July

New York's average July high is 6.7°C above London's 21.8°C, a noticeable step up if you are used to summers at home. Temperatures reach 30°C on 32% of days, while the hottest days can reach 32.9°C or more. With humidity at 71%, allow for sticky conditions rather than assuming the heat will feel dry. Put longer walks earlier in the day, leave room for shaded or indoor breaks around midday, and carry water. Light, breathable clothing makes more sense than heavy fabrics. July suits travellers who enjoy warmth; if heat quickly wears you out, a tightly packed outdoor itinerary could become hard work.

Keep outdoor plans flexible

July is wet enough that rain should be part of your planning, not an afterthought. About 11 rainy days means you should have indoor alternatives, although that figure does not mean those days are complete washouts. Pack a compact umbrella or a light waterproof that will not feel too heavy in the warmth. There is about 6.7 hours of sunshine within 14.6 hours of daylight, so long days do not guarantee clear skies throughout. Use dry spells for outdoor plans and avoid making every day dependent on sunshine. The daylight gives you flexibility to head out later when the strongest daytime heat has eased.