Weather Comparison
New York vs Paris
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: New York vs Paris
| Metric | New York | Paris | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 21°C (70°F)▲ | 19°C (66°F) | New York |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 11°C (52°F)▲ | 9°C (48°F) | New York |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 11 days | 11 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 87 mm | 65 mm▲ | Paris |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 10h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9▲ | 10 | New York |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 17 km/h▲ | 18 km/h | New York |
Which City is Better in May?
New York and Paris are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
New York sits in the comfortable travel range at 21°C. Paris is also comfortable at 19°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May.
Temperature Comparison in May
New York reaches an average high of 21°C (70°F) and drops to 11°C (52°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.
Paris averages 19°C (66°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°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 May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
New York receives approximately 87 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Paris sees 65 mm over 11 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.
What to Pack: New York vs Paris
Packing for New York in May
Highs of 21°C, lows of 11°C, 11 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
Packing for Paris in May
Highs of 19°C, lows of 9°C, 11 rain days
- ✓warm layers
- ✓a mid-weight jacket
- ✓long trousers
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: New York vs Paris
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.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | New York | Paris | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 4°C | 9d | 7°C | 12d |
| Feb | 5°C | 9d | 8°C | 10d |
| Mar | 9°C | 10d | 12°C | 11d |
| Apr | 15°C | 11d | 15°C | 11d |
| May | 21°C | 11d | 19°C | 11d |
| Jun | 26°C | 11d | 22°C | 10d |
| Jul | 29°C | 12d | 24°C | 10d |
| Aug | 28°C | 11d | 24°C | 9d |
| Sep | 24°C | 9d | 21°C | 8d |
| Oct | 18°C | 9d | 16°C | 11d |
| Nov | 12°C | 8d | 11°C | 11d |
| Dec | 6°C | 10d | 7°C | 12d |
New York Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Paris Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities