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The weather in New York City in March can vary widely yearly. In this quick article, I’ll tell you all you need to know about New York City’s weather in March. I’ll include the temperature, how often it rains, what to pack, and some of the best things to do. But why don’t we cut the small talk and jump right in?
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Weather in New York City in March
What’s the Temperature in New York City in March?
The weather in New York in March is fickle, swinging between chilly and charming. Expect mornings and evenings in the low 30s, demanding coats and scarves. Afternoons tease spring’s arrival, offering glimpses of sunshine and highs in the 50s, perfect for shedding layers and strolling through Central Park.
Average temperatures in NYC in March:
- Highs: 47°F (8°C)
- Lows: 32°F (0°C)
However, March weather can be quite variable:
- Early March: Expect chilly temperatures with highs in the mid-40s F (6-7°C) and lows in the low 30s F (0 to -1°C).
- Late March: Spring starts to arrive with highs in the low to mid-50s F (11-13°C) and lows around the upper 30s F (3-5°C). Some afternoons can even see temperatures in the mid-60s F (17-18°C).
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How Much Does it Rain In New York City in March?
New York City in March experiences a moderate amount of rain. Here’s a breakdown:
- Average rainfall: Around 2.75 inches (70 mm) spread over approximately 10-12 days.
- Rain frequency: It rains on average 1 in every 3 days, but remember, these days may just involve light showers.
- Significant rainfall: Only 2-3 days in March typically see significant rainfall exceeding 0.5 inches (13 mm).
- Comparison to other months: March receives slightly less rain than May, the wettest month, and more than September, the driest.
Therefore, while you can expect some rain in NYC in March, it likely won’t be enough to keep you inside. Pack an umbrella or raincoat for potential showers, and don’t let the rain define your trip!
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New York City in March Packing List
We have articles on our site covering what to pack for New York City in March and what to wear in New York City in spring, but I’ll give you the (quick) rundown here too.
Early March NYC Packing List
- Parka & Wool Coat
- 2-3 Comfortable Sweaters
- Base Layers (Long Sleeve Shirts)
- Accessories: Hats, Gloves, Scarf
Late March NYC Packing List
- Trench & Wool Coat
- 2-3 Comfortable Sweaters
- Base Layers (Long Sleeve Shirts)
- Accessories: Hats, Gloves, Scarf
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Highlights of NYC in March
With the bettering weather in New York City in March, the city starts to come out of hibernation and host various events. The spring blooms are beginning to bud, St. Patrick’s festivities are in full swing, and there’s a handful of fun festivals. Here are some of the highlights:
- Cheer on New York City Football Club at Their 2024 Home Opener
- Take Advantage of the Last Month of Ice Skating
- Cheer on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- Support a Team at March Madness
- Get Loud at New York Knicks Vs. Brooklyn Nets
- Gawk at the Macy’s Flower Show
- Admire The Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden
- Off-Broadway Week
- New York International Children’s Film Festival
- Affordable Art Fair
For our full recommendations, including dates, details, prices, and pictures, be sure to read 15+ Magnificent Things to Do in New York City in March (+ Helpful Tips!).
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Is March a Good Time to Visit New York City?
March is a shoulder season in New York City, offering budget-friendly deals and hit-and-miss weather. While crowds are thin and deals are available on flights, hotels, and experiences, chilly mornings (lows in the 30s) demand layers. Afternoons tease with spring’s warmth, reaching the 50s, ideal for exploring NYC’s most charming neighborhoods in a light sweater.
Pack an umbrella for rainy days, but enjoy fewer crowds! Some attractions might have limited hours, but outdoor dining and rooftop bars are returning in full swing. So, is March one of the best months to visit NYC? If you crave guaranteed warmth and bustling crowds, wait. But for budget travelers seeking a quieter NYC with a hint of spring amidst winter’s goodbye, March is a great time to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
March in NYC is transitioning from winter to spring, with chilly mornings and evenings but warming afternoons, so it depends on your personal tolerance for cool weather. Pack layers!
Whether March is a good time to visit NYC depends on what you’re looking for. It’s the tail end of winter, so expect chilly mornings and evenings, but afternoons can be surprisingly warm, offering glimpses of spring. It’s also the shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, but some attractions might have limited hours.
Snow in NYC in March is not likely, but still possible: expect around 2 days with light snow, and 1 heavier snowfall (1+ inch) every other year. Pack layers for spring’s arrival, but keep an umbrella handy!
New York City’s hottest March day ever was a scorcher! The record high is 86°F (30°C), reached on both March 31st, 1998 and March 29th, 1945.
The coldest NYC March day on record was 3°F (-16°C), keeping folks bundled up and shivering on March 5th, 1872.
More Spring Related Reads
What to Pack: What to Wear in New York City in the Spring (Packing List & Outfit Ideas)
For the Tulip-Lovers: 10 Best Spots to See Tulips in New York City
Exploring Central Park’s Blooms: 5 Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Central Park (Local’s Guide)
Blooms across NYC: 10 Breathtaking Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in New York City
How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day: 12 EPIC Things to Do on St. Patrick’s Day in New York City
Other Seasons to Explore
Things to Do in March: 15+ Magnificent Things to Do in New York City in March (+ Helpful Tips!)
Visiting in April: 20 Amazing Things to Do in New York City in April (2024)
Best Things to Do in May: 25 Memorable Things to Do in New York City in May (Local’s Guide)
Visiting in the Summer: Epic New York City Summer Activities Worth Breaking a Sweat For
Things to Do in the Fall: 25 Fun Fall Activities in New York City (Helpful 2024 Guide)
And there you have it, my friends. I hope this quick roundup of the weather trends in New York City in March can help you plan your trip! Enjoy New York, until next time.
Antonina.