Weather Comparison
Washington DC vs New York
Side-by-side weather comparison for February
February Weather: Washington DC vs New York
| Metric | Washington DC | New York | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 8°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 drier | 9 days | 9 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 73 mm▲ | 78 mm | Washington DC |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 7h/day | 7h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 1 | 1 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h▲ | 19 km/h | Washington 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.
| 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 February
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
New York Weather in February
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities