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Weather Comparison

New York vs Washington DC

Side-by-side weather comparison for August

New York: 28°CWashington DC: 30°C328 km apart

August Weather: New York vs Washington DC

MetricNew YorkWashington DCBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer28°C (82°F)30°C (86°F)Washington DC
Average LowHigher is milder20°C (68°F)20°C (68°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days11 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier105 mm98 mmWashington DC
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayWashington DC
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h12 km/hWashington DC

Which City is Better in August?

New York and Washington DC are closely matched in August. 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 28°C. Washington DC runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in August. Washington DC receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in August

New York reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 20°C (68°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Washington DC averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 20°C (68°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 August.

Rainfall Comparison in August

New York receives approximately 105 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during August. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Washington DC sees 98 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 Washington DC

Packing for New York in August

Highs of 28°C, lows of 20°C, 11 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Washington DC in August

Highs of 30°C, lows of 20°C, 11 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during August.

Year-Round Comparison: New York vs Washington DC

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.August is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthNew YorkWashington DC
HighRainHighRain
Jan4°C9d6°C9d
Feb5°C9d8°C9d
Mar9°C10d13°C10d
Apr15°C11d19°C10d
May21°C11d24°C12d
Jun26°C11d29°C12d
Jul29°C12d31°C13d
Aug28°C11d30°C11d
Sep24°C9d26°C10d
Oct18°C9d20°C8d
Nov12°C8d13°C8d
Dec6°C10d8°C9d
28°

New York Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Washington DC Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York warmer than Washington DC in August?
No. In August, Washington DC is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to New York at 28°C (82°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in August, New York or Washington DC?
Both cities average 11 rain days in August with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit New York or Washington DC in August?
It depends on your preferences. New York averages 28°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Washington DC averages 30°C with 11 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Washington DC. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are New York and Washington DC?
New York and Washington DC are approximately 328 km (204 miles) apart. New York is located in United States (North America) while Washington DC is in United States (North America).
What is the best month to visit New York and Washington DC?
For New York, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 26°C. For Washington DC, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 30°C highs.

Compare New York and Washington DC 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 | Washington DC coordinates: 38.91°N, -77.04°E