Weather Comparison
New York vs Washington DC
Side-by-side weather comparison for March
March Weather: New York vs Washington DC
| Metric | New York | Washington DC | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 9°C (48°F) | 13°C (55°F)▲ | Washington DC |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 0°C (32°F) | 2°C (36°F)▲ | Washington DC |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 10 days | 10 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 106 mm | 100 mm▲ | Washington DC |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 8h/day | 8h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 6 | 6 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 20 km/h | 18 km/h▲ | Washington DC |
Which City is Better in March?
New York and Washington DC are closely matched in March. 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 9°C, requiring warmer clothing. Washington DC is cooler at 13°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in March.
Temperature Comparison in March
New York reaches an average high of 9°C (48°F) and drops to 0°C (32°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.
Washington DC averages 13°C (55°F) for the high and 2°C (36°F) for the low, with a daily range of 11°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in March.
Rainfall Comparison in March
New York receives approximately 106 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during March. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Washington DC sees 100 mm over 10 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 March
Highs of 9°C, lows of 0°C, 10 rain days
- ✓heavy winter coat
- ✓thermal base layers
- ✓warm gloves and hat
- ✓insulated boots
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓a warm scarf
Packing for Washington DC in March
Highs of 13°C, lows of 2°C, 10 rain days
- ✓warm layers
- ✓a mid-weight jacket
- ✓long trousers
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓a warm scarf
Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during March.
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.March 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 March
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Washington DC Weather in March
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities