Weather Comparison
New York vs Washington DC
Side-by-side weather comparison for February
February Weather: New York vs Washington DC
| Metric | New York | Washington DC | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 5°C (41°F) | 8°C (46°F)▲ | Washington DC |
| Average LowHigher is milder | -4°C (25°F) | -1°C (30°F)▲ | Washington DC |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 9 days | 9 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 78 mm | 73 mm▲ | Washington DC |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 7h/day | 7h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 1 | 1 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 19 km/h | 18 km/h▲ | Washington DC |
Which City is Better in February?
New York and Washington DC are closely matched in February. 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 is on the cooler side at 5°C, requiring warmer clothing. Washington DC is cooler at 8°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in February.
Temperature Comparison in February
New York reaches an average high of 5°C (41°F) and drops to -4°C (25°F) at night during February. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.
Washington DC averages 8°C (46°F) for the high and -1°C (30°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in February.
Rainfall Comparison in February
New York receives approximately 78 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during February. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Washington DC sees 73 mm over 9 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 February
Highs of 5°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 Washington DC in February
Highs of 8°C, lows of -1°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
Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a packable rain jacket, an umbrella, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during February.
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.February 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 February
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Washington DC Weather in February
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities