Weather Comparison

New York vs Boston

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

New York: 4°CBoston: 2°C306 km apart

January Weather: New York vs Boston

MetricNew YorkBostonBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer4°C (39°F)2°C (36°F)New York
Average LowHigher is milder-4°C (25°F)-6°C (21°F)New York
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days10 daysNew York
PrecipitationLess is drier83 mm93 mmNew York
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier6h/day6h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better19 km/h23 km/hNew York

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, New York edges ahead as the better destination in January. New York offers 6 hours of daily sunshine with only 9 rain days, while Boston sees 6 sunshine hours and 10 rain days.

New York is on the cooler side at 4°C, requiring warmer clothing. Boston is cooler at 2°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, New York is the stronger choice in January.

Temperature Comparison in January

New York reaches an average high of 4°C (39°F) and drops to -4°C (25°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Boston averages 2°C (36°F) for the high and -6°C (21°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

New York receives approximately 83 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Boston sees 93 mm over 10 rain days. That makes New York the drier option by 1 rain day and 10 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: New York vs Boston

Packing for New York in January

Highs of 4°C, lows of -4°C, 9 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Boston in January

Highs of 2°C, lows of -6°C, 10 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: New York vs Boston

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthNew YorkBoston
HighRainHighRain
Jan4°C9d2°C10d
Feb5°C9d3°C9d
Mar9°C10d7°C11d
Apr15°C11d14°C11d
May21°C11d19°C11d
Jun26°C11d25°C10d
Jul29°C12d28°C10d
Aug28°C11d27°C9d
Sep24°C9d23°C8d
Oct18°C9d16°C10d
Nov12°C8d10°C10d
Dec6°C10d5°C11d
4°

New York Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

2°

Boston Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York warmer than Boston in January?
Yes. In January, New York is warmer with an average high of 4°C (39°F) compared to Boston at 2°C (36°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, New York or Boston?
Boston gets more rain in January with 10 rain days and 93 mm of precipitation. New York is the drier option with 9 rain days.
Is it better to visit New York or Boston in January?
It depends on your preferences. New York averages 4°C and 6 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. Boston averages 2°C with 6 sunshine hours and 10 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose New York. For drier weather, New York is the better pick.
How far apart are New York and Boston?
New York and Boston are approximately 306 km (190 miles) apart. New York is located in United States (North America) while Boston is in United States (North America).
What is the best month to visit New York and Boston?
For New York, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 26°C. For Boston, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare New York and Boston in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

New York coordinates: 40.71°N, -74.01°E | Boston coordinates: 42.36°N, -71.06°E