October Weather in New York City, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

October in New York City brings a delightful blend of weather that showcases the city's transition into fall. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F), the month retains some summer warmth, while the average temperature settles at a comfortable 16°C (61°F). As the city cools off, minimum temperatures can dip to 4°C (39°F), reminding residents of the approaching winter chill. Rainy days occur about 10 times, contributing to a total precipitation of 128 mm (5.0 in), and the humidity stays relatively high at 74%, enhancing the crisp feel in the air. October's mix of warm sunny days and refreshing breezes makes it a vibrant time to experience NYC's dynamic atmosphere.

October Temperature in New York City

October in New York City marks a gentle shift towards cooler weather, with temperatures feeling comfortably crisp. The month experiences a minimum temperature of around 4°C (39°F) and averages 16°C (61°F), showcasing a clear transition from the warmth of summer. With a maximum of 33°C (91°F), there are still remnants of heat, particularly in the early weeks. As autumn deepens, the air grows brisker, heralding the colorful foliage that the city is renowned for. This delightful blend of warmth and coolness makes October an inviting time for both residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities before winter sets in.

October Weather in New York City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates October temperature patterns in New York City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec343642526272787670604638
Data source: Temperature data for New York City generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

October Precipitation in New York City

October in New York City brings a notable uptick in precipitation, with 128 mm (5.0 in) of rain falling over an average of 10 days. This increase marks October as one of the wetter months, following a relatively dry September that recorded only 92 mm (3.6 in). As autumn settles in, the frequency of rainy days also ramps up, contributing to the vibrant fall foliage. Interestingly, the month stands out for its precipitation, surpassing that of several summer months, including August and June. Overall, October’s rain is a refreshing change that reinforces the seasonal transition and adds to the city's dynamic climate.

October Precipitation Trends in New York City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in New York City, with values for each month alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how October's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec6710298112114921481279212883106
Data source: Precipitation data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
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October Humidity in New York City

In October, New York City experiences a notable shift in humidity levels, averaging around 74%. This marks a subtle rise from the preceding months, where September's humidity settled at 68%. The trading of summer's drier air— exemplified by July and August, which flaunt their lowest humidity levels at 62% and 65%, respectively— for the crispness of fall results in higher moisture in the atmosphere. As autumn deepens, the city's humidity rises yet again, paving the way for the wetter months ahead, reflected in November's humidity of 82%. This transitional period highlights how the atmosphere's moisture ebbs and flows with the seasons, enveloping New York in the embrace of autumn.

October Average Humidity in New York City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in New York City, with October's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how October's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec84%82%81%78%70%69%62%65%68%74%82%80%
Data source: Humidity data for October generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

October UV Index in New York City

In October, New York City experiences a high UV Index of 6, signaling a gradual descent from the scorching peaks of summer but still warranting caution. This month sees a burn time of 25 minutes, indicating that while the sun’s intensity is easing, it remains essential to protect your skin during outdoor activities. Compared to the previous months—where the heat reached its zenith with indices soaring to 10—October marks a shift towards more moderate exposure levels similar to early spring. As we transition into late fall, residents should remain vigilant about UV safety, keeping in mind that skin protection is still crucial. For more nuanced insights on UV levels throughout the year, visit New York City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in New York City for October

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for New York City in October, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec35681010998642
Data source: New York City October UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

October Sunshine in New York City

October in New York City greets residents and visitors with a delightful decline in sunshine, offering 218 hours of bright rays, a notable dip compared to the sun-drenched summer months. Following the peak of 339 hours in July, this month transitions towards the cooler embrace of autumn, reminiscent of September's 272 hours. As daylight wanes and the crisp air settles in, October stands as a vibrant bridge between the sunny fervor of summer and the impending chill of winter. The slight decrease in sunshine provides the perfect backdrop for the city's stunning fall foliage, inviting everyone to relish the beauty that this season brings.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in New York City: October Highlighted

The October sunshine duration represents the total number of hours New York City experiences direct sunlight during the month of October, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of October with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec148h177h248h238h271h310h339h309h272h218h208h175h
Data source: New York City October Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in New York City During October

October in New York City marks a transition as the warm hues of autumn emerge, but the likelihood of sunny weather dips to 37%. This percentage places it among the lower ranks when compared to other months, particularly in contrast to the bright promise of March at 57% and the more favorable November, which basks in 55%. The sunshine declines even further from the summer months, where July and August both struggle to break 50%. With a steady pattern showing decreasing sunshine from the height of summer to the depths of fall, October presents a blend of vibrant foliage and the chance of overcast skies, making it the perfect time for cozy activities indoors as well as enjoying the crisp outdoor air.

Percentage of Sunny Days in October in New York City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in New York City throughout the year, with October highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often New York City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec48%31%57%45%42%39%43%29%45%37%55%31%
Data source: New York City October chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in New York City in October

In October, New York City experiences a gentle transition as daylight dwindles to 11 hours. As the brisk autumn air begins to set in, this month marks a noticeable shift from the longer days of summer, where daylight peaked at 15 hours in June. Following a gradual decline through September's 12 hours, October's sunlight reminds us of the approaching winter months. This pattern of diminishing daylight serves as a reminder of nature's rhythms, with each season bringing its own unique charm, from the vibrant foliage of fall to the crisp nights that alert us to the year's impending close. As daylight hours decrease, residents and visitors alike can relish the cozy ambiance that autumn brings to the bustling city.

Average Daylight Hours in New York City for October

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in New York City throughout the year, with October highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 36m10h 39m11h 58m13h 19m14h 28m15h 2m14h 43m13h 42m12h 24m11h 3m9h 53m9h 17m
Data source: New York City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

October Winds in New York City

As October sweeps into New York City, the average wind speed settles at a gentle 3.1 m/s (7 mph), mirroring the breezy atmosphere of September and November. This marks a noticeable drop from the gustier winter months, where speeds typically hover around 3.5 to 3.7 m/s. The waning summer heat transitions to a crisp autumn embrace, with winds softening further from their summer lows, suggesting a time of change in both weather and spirit. This month serves as a bridge, bringing cooler days while maintaining a mild breeze, inviting New Yorkers to enjoy the vibrant fall foliage with the refreshing caress of the October wind.

Average October Wind Speed in New York City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in New York City, with values for each month shown alongside October's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how October's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.53.43.73.43.32.82.62.53.13.1 m/s3.12.9
Data source: New York City October wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How October Weather in New York City Compares to Other Months

The weather in New York City changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of October's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in New York City and find detailed weather information for every month.

In October, the weather in New York City tends to be much warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 4°C (39°F) to an average of 16°C (61°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, averaging 128 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 10 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, January brings much colder conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -18°C (-1°F), averaging just 1°C (34°F), and peaking at 18°C (64°F). Precipitation is lower in January, averaging 67 mm (2.7 in) over about 7 days, but the humidity rises to 84%. For more detailed insights on January weather in New York City, check out New York City weather in January.

October weather offers a wide range of temperatures, from a cool minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average around 16°C (61°F). In contrast, February is much colder, featuring a minimum temperature that can drop to -16°C (4°F) and an average of just 2°C (36°F). Both months experience around 10 days of precipitation, but October sees significantly more rainfall at 128 mm (5.0 in) compared to February's 102 mm (4.0 in). While October's humidity sits at a moderate 74%, February's humidity is slightly higher at 82%. For more insights, check out the details on New York City weather in February.

When comparing the weather in October to that in March, notable contrasts emerge. October boasts milder temperatures with a minimum of 4°C (39°F) and an average high of 16°C (61°F), peaking at 33°C (91°F). It experiences more significant warmth than March, which has a lower minimum of -9°C (16°F) and an overall average temperature of 5°C (42°F), reaching a maximum of 25°C (77°F). Additionally, October is slightly wetter, receiving 128 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over ten days, compared to March's 98 mm (3.8 in) on the same number of days. Furthermore, humidity levels are a bit high in both months, with October at 74% and March at 81%. For more detailed insights, you can check New York City weather in March.

When comparing the weather between October and April, we see distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. October boasts a wider temperature range, with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F), while April experiences cooler temperatures, ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F). Despite October receiving slightly more precipitation at 128 mm (5.0 in) over 10 days, April isn't far behind with 112 mm (4.4 in) over 12 days. Additionally, April exhibits a higher humidity level of 78% compared to October's 74%. For more detailed information, you can visit New York City weather in April.

When comparing October and May weather, both months exhibit mild average temperatures, but October tends to have slightly warmer maximum temperatures, averaging up to 33°C (91°F) compared to May's 31°C (88°F). Precipitation levels in October are a bit higher, with 128 mm (5.0 in) over approximately 10 days, while May sees 114 mm (4.5 in) across 13 days. The humidity is also slightly higher in October at 74%, compared to 69% in May, giving October a more humid feel. For more details on the weather in May, check out New York City weather in May.

When comparing the weather in October and June, several notable differences emerge. October experiences a broader temperature range with minimums around 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching up to 33°C (91°F), while June is generally warmer, with minimums of 10°C (50°F) and maximums peaking at 35°C (94°F). Precipitation is more frequent in October, with 128 mm (5.0 in) falling over 10 days, whereas June has a lower total of 92 mm (3.6 in) spread across 13 days. Additionally, October has a higher humidity level of 74%, compared to June's 69%. Overall, October tends to be more variable and slightly wetter, while June is consistently warmer. For more specific details, check out New York City weather in June.

When comparing the weather in October to July, it's clear that October experiences a wider range of temperatures, with minimums as low as 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91°F). In contrast, July remains consistently warmer, showcasing a minimum temperature of 17°C (62°F) and highs peaking at 36°C (96°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in July, with 148 mm (5.8 in) falling over 13 days compared to October's 128 mm (5.0 in) across 10 days. Additionally, October has higher humidity at 74%, while July's humidity sits at a more comfortable 62%. For more detailed insights, you can check the weather specifics here: New York City weather in July.

October and August present quite contrasting weather patterns. In October, the temperature range is broader, with minimums dipping to 4°C (39°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91°F), averaging around 16°C (61°F). This month experiences higher humidity at 74% and precipitation spread over 10 days, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in). In contrast, August boasts a warmer and more stable climate with minimums at 16°C (61°F) to maximums of 34°C (93°F), averaging 25°C (76°F). Despite its slightly lower precipitation of 127 mm (5.0 in), August has rainfall across 14 days and lower humidity at 65%. For a more detailed look at August weather, check out New York City weather in August.

When comparing the weather in October to September, one notable difference is the drop in minimum temperatures; October sees a chillier start at 4°C (39°F) compared to September's milder minimum of 9°C (49°F). However, the average maximum temperature in both months remains similar, with October peaking at 33°C (91°F) and September slightly higher at 33°C (92°F). Additionally, October experiences increased precipitation, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over 10 days, while September records 92 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days. Humidity levels are also higher in October at 74%, compared to September's 68%. For a closer look at September's weather specifics, you can visit New York City weather in September.

October and November exhibit contrasting weather patterns. In October, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of 4°C (39°F) to a warm maximum of 33°C (91°F), with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F). The month sees significant rainfall, totaling 128 mm (5.0 in) over about 10 days, and humidity levels average around 74%. Conversely, November brings colder conditions, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -9°C (17°F) and peaking at 24°C (75°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation decreases to 83 mm (3.3 in) across 8 days, and humidity slightly rises to 82%. For more detailed information, check out New York City weather in November.

In October, temperatures range from a cool 4°C (39°F) to a warm 33°C (91°F), with an average of 16°C (61°F) and approximately 128 mm (5.0 in) of rain over about 10 days, resulting in a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, December brings much colder conditions, with temperatures dipping as low as -11°C (13°F) and peaking at 18°C (64°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). Precipitation in December is slightly lower at 106 mm (4.2 in), also occurring over 10 days, but the humidity is a bit higher at 80%. For more details on the colder month, check out New York City weather in December.

Compare New York City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From October Weather in New York City

As October unfolds in New York City, it brings a refreshing shift from the lingering warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn. With temperatures fluctuating significantly—reaching up to 33°C at times—October creates a unique blend of cool days and occasional warm spells. This month is marked by increased humidity and a notable amount of precipitation, resulting in about ten rainy days that contribute to the vibrant fall foliage. Compared to the sweltering heat of summer or the biting chill of winter, October provides an ideal window for enjoying the city’s outdoor attractions while immersing oneself in the stunning seasonal changes. For more insights into what to expect throughout the year, explore the New York City Climate page.