CLIMATE NOTES · May
40.78°N 73.97°W · America/New_York
CLIMATE NOTES · May
Manhattan · 🇺🇸 United States

Manhattan Weather in May: Climate, Temperature & Travel Tips

Avg 15.9°C · 87mm rain — May is spring in Manhattan.

AT A GLANCE
21° Avg High
11° Avg Low
87 Rain mm
Spring Season
May climate normals
Avg high
20.9 °C
Avg low
11.4 °C
Avg
15.9 °C
Precipitation
87 mm
ANNUAL CLIMATE
Manhattan · Annual Climate 0 -10°35° °C 067134 mm JFMAMJJASOND TEMP RANGE · AVG · RAINFALL

Source: Open-Meteo Archive 2014–2023 · 10-year climate normals

Climate Overview

May in Manhattan, United States brings spring conditions: average temperature 15.9°C, average high 20.9°C, average low 11.4°C. Monthly rainfall averages 87mm, making it a moderate-rainfall time of year.

Conditions are pleasant for most travel activities.

What to Pack

  • Light layers (long sleeves + light jacket for evenings)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A light rain jacket as backup

Best Things to Do

  • Walking tours and city exploration
  • Parks and outdoor cafes
  • Seasonal food and night markets (where applicable)

Pros and Cons of Visiting in May

Pros:

  • Pleasant temperatures for walking and outdoor sightseeing
  • Shoulder season often means smaller crowds and lower prices

Cons:

  • No major weather drawbacks for typical activities

Climate source: Open-Meteo Archive (2014–2023).

PACKING ESSENTIALS
01 Light jacket For cooler evenings and air-conditioned interiors
02 Breathable trousers Linen or travel-stretch fabric
03 Sun hat Wide brim for UV protection outdoors
04 Sunscreen SPF 30+ Reapply every two hours
05 Light layer for rain Brief showers in warm seasons
YEAR AT A GLANCE
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Colour = avg temperature · blue = cool · orange = warm

HOTTEST MONTHS
  1. 1 July 24.6°C
  2. 2 August 23.8°C
  3. 3 June 21.0°C
COOLEST MONTHS
  1. 1 January -0.3°C
  2. 2 February 0.5°C
  3. 3 December 3.5°C
Q&A

FAQ

01 What is the average temperature in Manhattan in May?
+

The average is 15.9°C, with a high of 21°C and a low of 11°C.

02 What is Manhattan like to visit in May?
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It is spring in Manhattan, which is ideal for outdoor exploration.

03 Does it rain often in Manhattan during May?
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Average rainfall is 87mm, which is moderate.

04 What should I pack for Manhattan in May?
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Light layers (long sleeves + light jacket for evenings); Comfortable walking shoes.

05 Is May a peak travel season for Manhattan?
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It is closer to off-season, with more reasonable prices and fewer crowds.

06 Where does this climate data come from?
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Monthly averages computed from Open-Meteo Archive 2014–2023 daily observations.

Sources
Open-Meteo Archive 2014-2023
Updated
2026-04-17

Climate normals are averages; individual years vary.