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Weather Comparison

Washington DC vs New York

Side-by-side weather comparison for February

Washington DC: 8°CNew York: 5°C328 km apart

February Weather: Washington DC vs New York

MetricWashington DCNew YorkBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer8°C (46°F)5°C (41°F)Washington DC
Average LowHigher is milder-1°C (30°F)-4°C (25°F)Washington DC
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days9 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier73 mm78 mmWashington DC
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day7h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h19 km/hWashington DC

Which City is Better in February?

Washington DC and New York 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.

Washington DC is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. New York is cooler at 5°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in February

Washington DC reaches an average high of 8°C (46°F) and drops to -1°C (30°F) at night during February. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

New York averages 5°C (41°F) for the high and -4°C (25°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

Washington DC receives approximately 73 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during February. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

New York sees 78 mm over 9 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 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

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

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: 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.February 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
8°

Washington DC Weather in February

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

5°

New York Weather in February

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington DC warmer than New York in February?
Yes. In February, Washington DC is warmer with an average high of 8°C (46°F) compared to New York at 5°C (41°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in February, Washington DC or New York?
Both cities average 9 rain days in February with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Washington DC or New York in February?
It depends on your preferences. Washington DC averages 8°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. New York averages 5°C with 7 sunshine hours and 9 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