Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Washington DC vs New York

Side-by-side weather comparison for August

Washington DC: 30°CNew York: 28°C328 km apart

August Weather: Washington DC vs New York

MetricWashington DCNew YorkBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)28°C (82°F)Washington DC
Average LowHigher is milder20°C (68°F)20°C (68°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days11 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier98 mm105 mmWashington DC
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day11h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer99Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h15 km/hWashington DC

Which City is Better in August?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, New York edges ahead as the better destination in August. New York offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Washington DC sees 11 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Washington DC can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. New York is also comfortable at 28°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in August.

Temperature Comparison in August

Washington DC reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 20°C (68°F) at night during August. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

New York averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 20°C (68°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°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

Washington DC receives approximately 98 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during August. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

New York sees 105 mm over 11 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Washington DC vs New York

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

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

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: Washington DC vs New York

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.

MonthWashington DCNew York
HighRainHighRain
Jan6°C9d4°C9d
Feb8°C9d5°C9d
Mar13°C10d9°C10d
Apr19°C10d15°C11d
May24°C12d21°C11d
Jun29°C12d26°C11d
Jul31°C13d29°C12d
Aug30°C11d28°C11d
Sep26°C10d24°C9d
Oct20°C8d18°C9d
Nov13°C8d12°C8d
Dec8°C9d6°C10d
30°

Washington DC Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

28°

New York Weather in August

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington DC warmer than New York in August?
Yes. 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, Washington DC or New York?
Both cities average 11 rain days in August with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Washington DC or New York in August?
It depends on your preferences. Washington DC averages 30°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. New York averages 28°C with 11 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Washington DC. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Washington DC and New York?
Washington DC and New York are approximately 328 km (204 miles) apart. Washington DC is located in United States (North America) while New York is in United States (North America).
What is the best month to visit Washington DC and New York?
For Washington DC, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 30°C. For New York, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Washington DC and New York 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.

Washington DC coordinates: 38.91°N, -77.04°E | New York coordinates: 40.71°N, -74.01°E