May · United States
Best time to visit New York in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in New York in May
Average temperature 16°C, 116 mm of rain, about 24 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 70% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
8.0/10
Ranked #2 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 16°C
- Rainfall
- 116 mm
- Humidity
- 70%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 24
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$ · Moderate Cost ($$)
May in New York scores 8.0/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - one of the top 12-month picks (#2). Expect around 16°C, 116 mm of rain, and roughly 24 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Skyline energy, world-class museums, and park life at their best in late spring through early fall.
May in New York — reliably good (2nd best month)
May averages 16°C (61°F), the range most people find easiest for walking a city all day without either overheating or losing daylight to weather.
Monthly rainfall reaches 116 mm — wet for this destination — but about 24 days with 6+ hours of sunshine still break through, so keep one indoor fallback in the plan.
It scores 8/10 here, 2nd of 12 months, against 8.7/10 in the destination's best month.
Pack layers you can shed by midday plus one warm layer for the evening, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
Plan for mid-season pricing, with crowds are moderate.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in New York in May?
- In May, New York averages 16°C, 116 mm of rain, and about 24 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 8.0/10.
- Is May a good time to visit New York?
- May earns a 8.0/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in New York in May?
- Expect about 116 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 70% and there are about 24 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in New York
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in New York
New York, United States. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.