New York vs Washington DC

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, New York edges ahead as the better destination in May. New York offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Washington DC sees 10 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

New York sits in the comfortable travel range at 21°C. Washington DC is also comfortable at 24°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, New York is the stronger choice in May.

New York reaches an average high of 21°C (70°F) and drops to 11°C (52°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Washington DC averages 24°C (75°F) for the high and 13°C (55°F) for the low, with a daily range of 11°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 May.

New York receives approximately 87 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Washington DC sees 100 mm over 12 rain days. That makes New York the drier option by 1 rain day and 13 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.