Weather Comparison
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
| 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 |
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.
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.
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%.
Highs of 21°C, lows of 11°C, 11 rain days
Highs of 19°C, lows of 9°C, 11 rain days
Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month. 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