New York City Weather in May
Planning a trip to New York City in May? Here's what the weather is really like as the city fully wakes up for the season — and one summer preview to watch for.
May is when NYC hits its stride. Highs climb from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F through the month, lows shift from the 50s into the 60s, humidity stays comfortable (that summer swelter is still a few weeks away), and the whole city moves outside — rooftop bars, outdoor dining, Central Park picnics, baseball season in full swing.
Rain averages 10–12 days, but the pattern starts to change: the polar jet stream retreats, the Bermuda High expands north, and the combination of daytime heating and rising humidity introduces the first real thunderstorm threat of the year. Not a defining feature of the month, but worth having on your radar if you're planning long days on foot. Meteorologist Ian Schwartz breaks down what to expect.
At a glance
What's covered
- Highs, lows, and the rising temperature curve
- Why humidity stays comfortable (for now)
- Rainy days and the shift toward thunderstorms
- How the Bermuda High changes the weather pattern
- Lightning, gusty wind, and hail odds
- Why May is one of the best months to visit NYC
Jump to a moment
New York City in May FAQ
What is the weather like in New York City in May?
Genuinely great. Highs climb from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F through the month, lows shift from the 50s into the 60s, humidity stays comfortable, and the whole city moves outside. Rain averages 10–12 days but transitions from spring showers to the first real thunderstorms of the year.
Is May a good time to visit New York?
One of the best. The weather hits its sweet spot before summer humidity arrives, outdoor dining and rooftop bars are in full swing, and baseball season is well underway. Crowds pick up compared to shoulder months but haven't hit summer peak.
Does New York have thunderstorms in May?
Yes — May is when they start. As the Bermuda High expands north and daytime heating rises, thunderstorms become the dominant rain pattern. Most are short-lived afternoon storms, but they can pack lightning, gusty wind, and occasional hail. Worth watching the forecast if you're planning a long walking day.