Mid-autumn · Weather & things to do
Manhattan in October
The year's rain peaks now, with about 4.8 in (122 mm) falling in Manhattan, alongside highs near 65°F (18°C) and lows of 47°F (8°C).
At 82/100 for comfort (3rd of 12), it's one of the best months to visit.
- Avg high
- 65°F (18°C)
- Avg low
- 47°F (8°C)
- Rain
- 4.8 in (122 mm)
- Humidity
- 78%
- Cloud cover
- 56%
- Daylight
- ~10 h 53 min
- Comfort score
- 82/100 · Great
What October feels like
Expect mild afternoons around 65°F (18°C), good for long walks.
After dark, temperatures fall to about 47°F (8°C).
Expect regular rain: about 4.8 in (122 mm) falls in the month.
Plan around October
October is one of Manhattan's best months on the climate data.
- Inside the wettest three-month stretch, August – October.
- Last of the best-scoring months: by November, the score drops to 63/100.
- The year's biggest cool-down: highs drop 7°C (13°F) from September.
- Comfort holds steady from September (83 → 82/100).
- October sits inside the Sep – Nov window our NYC Cultural Weekend route recommends.
What to pack for October
- A warm layer for eveningslows near 47°F
- Rain jacket and waterproof shoesfrequent rain
- Comfortable walking shoesmost picks involve some walking
What to do in Manhattan in October
With conditions on your side, the picks below favor time outside.
Bethesda Terrace
Carved arcade and fountain at the heart of Central Park, a calm start before Midtown crowds.
Why now October scores 82/100 for comfort, good conditions for being outside.
Times Square
The billboards and Broadway theaters are at their best after dark.
Why now Highs near 65°F and 4.8 in of monthly rain make this an easy outdoor pick.
Russ & Daughters
Fourth-generation appetizing shop for smoked fish, bagels and babka.
The Dead Rabbit
Irish pub and cocktail parlor in the Financial District, known for its Irish coffee.
Top of the Rock
Open-air decks atop Rockefeller Center with a clear view of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Why now One to do outside while the weather is on your side.
Nearby in October
- New York City in October~5 mi · highs 64°F, 4.9 in rain · similar daytime temperatures, about as wet
- Beacon in October~50 mi · highs 64°F, 4.8 in rain · similar daytime temperatures, about as wet
- Philadelphia in October~85 mi · highs 67°F, 4.3 in rain · 1°C (2°F) warmer by day, about as wet
- Hudson in October~102 mi · highs 62°F, 4.9 in rain · 1°C (3°F) cooler by day, about as wet
These averages also cover Museum Mile.
NASA POWER 2001–2025 monthly averages on a ~50 km grid. Comfort scores weigh temperature, rain, humidity and cloud: see how we score each month. Check a forecast before you go.
Manhattan in October: quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Manhattan?
Yes. On the climate data it's one of the best months, scoring 82/100. Expect highs of 65°F (18°C) and 4.8 in (122 mm) of rain. October is inside the Sep – Nov window our NYC Cultural Weekend route recommends.
How hot is Manhattan in October?
Average highs are 65°F (18°C) and average lows 47°F (8°C), making it the 6th-warmest month by daytime highs.
Does it rain a lot in Manhattan in October?
Yes: about 4.8 in (122 mm) of rain falls across October on average, the wettest month of the year. The annual total is about 48.7 in (1236 mm).
What should I pack for Manhattan in October?
Bring a warm layer for evenings (lows near 47°F), rain jacket and waterproof shoes (frequent rain) and comfortable walking shoes (most picks involve some walking).
More on Manhattan
Routes in season in October
- NYC Cultural Weekend Sep – Nov
Planning Manhattan in October?
Share this October plan with your group, poll everyone on dates and keep the packing list in one place.