New York vs Washington DC

New York and Washington DC are closely matched in January. 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 4°C, requiring warmer clothing. Washington DC is cooler at 6°C.

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

New York reaches an average high of 4°C (39°F) and drops to -4°C (25°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Washington DC averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and -2°C (28°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 January.

New York receives approximately 83 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Washington DC sees 79 mm over 9 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.