What to Wear in New York in May - Best Tips From A Local

New York City is an exciting and vibrant place, but it can be hard to decide what to pack. As a native New Yorker for my entire life, I have all the tips on what to wear in New York in May.

From clothing suggestions based on temperature and forecasted precipitation to must-have accessories and items, get ready for your NYC adventure! We’ll give you all the advice needed so that you can focus on exploring everything that the city has to offer. So without further ado – let’s begin packing!

Table of Contents

What clothes to pack

Make sure to bring warm layers – long pants and sweaters are a must for evenings that can get chilly. A light jacket or coat is also essential for unpredictable weather changes. You should also bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes as NYC sidewalks can be hard on your feet!

Check the weather as close to your trip as possible for proper packing and still be prepared for anything.

Weather in New York in May

New York City in May is a great time of year to visit, but can also be unpredictable! As a local we like to joke “That’s why its called the month of May, because it MAY be warm or it MAY be cold!” Average temperatures typically range from 60-70 degrees during the day and can get chillier as night falls.

We recommend checking the weather as close to your trip as possible. The weather has been known to change in an instant during the month of May and can be 80 degrees one day and down to 50 degrees the next!

The humidity levels are low, making it more comfortable than other months of the year. Rainfall is also generally light throughout May, though you should still bring an umbrella just in case!

Early May will be cooler and higher chances of rain. Average temperatures will be in the mid 60’s with some warmer days here and there in the low 70’s.

In mid May the temperature will hopefully be warming up and the rain will be clearing out! (Never a guarantee unfortunately!) Average temperature will be reaching closer to low to mid 70’s with nights still dropping down to the 60’s.

Late May will be your best chance of sunny skies and warm weather. Highs have been known to reach the low 80’s but average temperature will remain around mid to high 70’s. Nights will still remain on the cooler side so remember to pack some layers!

What to wear in New York in May for Women

For women I recommend wearing something comfortable during the day if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing. Nighttime in NYC can be so much fun, so a dressier outfit would be great. With May weather typically pretty mild, pack lighter outfits during the day and some warmer outfits for nighttime.

Levi’s Women’s Original Trucker Jacket, Jeanie, Small

KIRUNDO 2023 Fall Women’s High Waist Boho Floral Maxi Skirt Casual Flowy Swing Pleated A Line Beach Long Skirts(Black Purple, Medium)

Hunter Original Women’s Waterproof Chelsea Boot (Soft Sand, US Size 7)

Tops

Layers are a must! Pick a comfortable top for exploring during the day, then a dressier one for a night out on the town. Pair your top with a light cardigan or jean jacket that can easily come off or stay on. Keep in mind that even if the temperatures are mild, the skyscrapers of the city cast a lot of shadows, so you won’t always have the sun to warm you up.

Bottoms

Jeans are a classic, but I personally love exploring the city in a comfy pair of leggings. A maxi skirt is always a great way to be dressy and casual at the same time. I love pairing a fun t-shirt with a maxi skirt and sneakers to dress it up a bit.

If you check the weather before and find a heat wave coming in, don’t be afraid of a nice pair of shorts! At night opt for a dressier look or a dress to wear out for a fun evening in the city!

Shoes

You’ll be doing a lot of walking in NYC! Wear comfortable shoes that are made for all-day wear, and don’t forget to pack an extra pair of socks to keep your feet feeling fresh. At night a dressier show will be perfect for seeing a broadway show or going out to a nice dinner followed by drinks on a rooftop bar!

Accessories

In addition to your jackets and tops, bring along some layering pieces like cardigans and scarves for added warmth when you’re out and about. Finish off any outfit with sunglasses, hats, jewelry, and handbags that fit the Big Apple vibe!

Rain Gear and Apparel

I never wore rain boots as often as I did when I lived in New York City. Yes, April showers are supposed to bring May flowers, but I have spent many days in the month of May jumping over puddles and walking through pouring rain! It’s best to be prepared, and a good set or rain boots is a must for New York City!

We also recommend a good rain jacket and umbrella to keep you dry.

🌟 Try these rain boots from Hunter! They are a comfortable and stylish!

Clothes for Men to Wear in New York in May

Similarly to women, men should pack comfortable outfits for exploring during the day and something nice to change into for an evening out. Comfortable shoes are a must, and try not to wear your best sneakers in case the NYC streets get them dirty.

London Fog Men’s Auburn Zip-Front Golf Jacket (Regular & Big-Tall Sizes), Iron, X-Large

Under Armour Men’s Charged Assert 9, Black (002)/Black, 12 X-Wide US, 3024857

True Classic Tees | 6-Shirt Pack | Premium Fitted Men’s T-Shirts | Crew Neck | Classic 6-Pack

Tops

T-Shirts are a great option for daytime exploring. Layers are also a must, so pack a sweatshirt or light jacket in case cold weather comes in. For nighttime, a light sweater or long sleeve button down shirt will be perfect for a fancy evening out on the town.