New York · USA
January
Post-holiday slump: cold, grey, but hotels at their most affordable and the city unexpectedly liveable.
Strong option
#10 of 12 months
There are better months for New York — see the full ranking below.
See when to go instead →Climate
High
3.3°C
Low
-3.2°C
Rain
84mm
Sun
5.3hrs/day
30-year climate normals · Open Meteo ERA5
How January scores in New York
Weather
Below average
Value
Excellent
Crowds
Very good
Events
Above average
Atmosphere
Good
What you gain in January
- ↑Broadway and museum tickets at best availability — same-week booking possible
- ↑Hotels significantly cheaper than peak summer or Christmas rates
- ↑Locals-only energy: New Yorkers go about their lives with visitors thin on the ground
What you sacrifice
- ↓Genuinely cold: -3°C overnight, wind chill can make it feel far colder
- ↓Snow and ice possible — affects outdoor plans significantly
- ↓Limited outdoor dining or park activity
How January compares to October (best month)
| Factor | January | October ★ |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | 3 | 9 |
| Value | 8 | 5 |
| Crowds | 7 | 4 |
January in other destinations
Climate data: 30-year normals (1991–2020) from Open Meteo ERA5 reanalysis. Scores compare months within New York, not across destinations. Methodology →