Weather Comparison
New York vs Washington DC
Side-by-side weather comparison for August
August Weather: New York vs Washington DC
| Metric | New York | Washington DC | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 28°C (82°F) | 30°C (86°F)▲ | Washington DC |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 20°C (68°F) | 20°C (68°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 11 days | 11 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 105 mm | 98 mm▲ | Washington DC |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 11h/day▲ | Washington DC |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 15 km/h | 12 km/h▲ | Washington 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.
| Month | New York | Washington DC | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 4°C | 9d | 6°C | 9d |
| Feb | 5°C | 9d | 8°C | 9d |
| Mar | 9°C | 10d | 13°C | 10d |
| Apr | 15°C | 11d | 19°C | 10d |
| May | 21°C | 11d | 24°C | 12d |
| Jun | 26°C | 11d | 29°C | 12d |
| Jul | 29°C | 12d | 31°C | 13d |
| Aug | 28°C | 11d | 30°C | 11d |
| Sep | 24°C | 9d | 26°C | 10d |
| Oct | 18°C | 9d | 20°C | 8d |
| Nov | 12°C | 8d | 13°C | 8d |
| Dec | 6°C | 10d | 8°C | 9d |
New York Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Washington DC Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities