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Weather Comparison

New York vs Washington DC

Side-by-side weather comparison for October

New York: 18°CWashington DC: 20°C328 km apart

October Weather: New York vs Washington DC

MetricNew YorkWashington DCBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer18°C (64°F)20°C (68°F)Washington DC
Average LowHigher is milder10°C (50°F)11°C (52°F)Washington DC
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days8 daysWashington DC
PrecipitationLess is drier98 mm89 mmWashington DC
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day8h/dayWashington DC
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h15 km/hWashington DC

Which City is Better in October?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Washington DC edges ahead as the better destination in October. Washington DC offers 8 hours of daily sunshine with only 8 rain days, while New York sees 7 sunshine hours and 9 rain days.

New York sits in the comfortable travel range at 18°C. Washington DC is also comfortable at 20°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Washington DC is the stronger choice in October. Washington DC receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in October

New York reaches an average high of 18°C (64°F) and drops to 10°C (50°F) at night during October. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Washington DC averages 20°C (68°F) for the high and 11°C (52°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°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 October.

Rainfall Comparison in October

New York receives approximately 98 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during October. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Washington DC sees 89 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Washington DC the drier option by 1 rain day and 9 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: New York vs Washington DC

Packing for New York in October

Highs of 18°C, lows of 10°C, 9 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Packing for Washington DC in October

Highs of 20°C, lows of 11°C, 8 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Pack for both: a packable rain jacket, an umbrella. These items are useful in either destination during October.

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.October 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
18°

New York Weather in October

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

20°

Washington DC Weather in October

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is New York warmer than Washington DC in October?
No. In October, Washington DC is warmer with an average high of 20°C (68°F) compared to New York at 18°C (64°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in October, New York or Washington DC?
New York gets more rain in October with 9 rain days and 98 mm of precipitation. Washington DC is the drier option with 8 rain days.
Is it better to visit New York or Washington DC in October?
It depends on your preferences. New York averages 18°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. Washington DC averages 20°C with 8 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Washington DC. For fewer rain days, Washington DC is the better pick.
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