Weather Comparison
Washington DC vs New York
Side-by-side weather comparison for August
August Weather: Washington DC vs New York
| Metric | Washington DC | New York | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 30°C (86°F)▲ | 28°C (82°F) | Washington DC |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 20°C (68°F) | 20°C (68°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 11 days | 11 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 98 mm▲ | 105 mm | Washington DC |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 11h/day | 11h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 12 km/h▲ | 15 km/h | Washington 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.
| Month | Washington DC | New York | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 6°C | 9d | 4°C | 9d |
| Feb | 8°C | 9d | 5°C | 9d |
| Mar | 13°C | 10d | 9°C | 10d |
| Apr | 19°C | 10d | 15°C | 11d |
| May | 24°C | 12d | 21°C | 11d |
| Jun | 29°C | 12d | 26°C | 11d |
| Jul | 31°C | 13d | 29°C | 12d |
| Aug | 30°C | 11d | 28°C | 11d |
| Sep | 26°C | 10d | 24°C | 9d |
| Oct | 20°C | 8d | 18°C | 9d |
| Nov | 13°C | 8d | 12°C | 8d |
| Dec | 8°C | 9d | 6°C | 10d |
Washington DC Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
New York Weather in August
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities