Tompkins County Climate
Tompkins County, New York
Avg Annual Temp
45.8°F
Annual Precip
38.9"
Annual Snowfall
63.7"
Extreme Heat Days
3.9
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
Climate Profile
About Tompkins County Weather
Cool Finger Lakes Climate
Tompkins County’s 45.8°F annual average is substantially cooler than the national median. The region’s geography creates a climate that stays cold late into the spring compared to much of the country.
Colder and Drier Than the State
Tompkins is roughly 1.6 degrees cooler than the state average of 47.4°F and receives less total precipitation at 38.9 inches. It serves as a classic example of the colder, interior New York climate.
High Snowfall in the Southern Tier
With 63.7 inches of annual snow, Tompkins is significantly snowier than the state average. It shares this high-snow profile with neighbors but remains drier in terms of total rainfall at 38.9 inches.
Frigid Winters and Mild Summers
January temperatures average 21.8°F, contributing to a harsh winter season with heavy snow accumulation. Summers are temperate, with July averaging 68.7°F and only 4 days reaching 90°F or higher.
Focus on Winter Insulation
Due to the 24.5°F winter average, high-quality home insulation is the top priority for residents. Because summer heat is rare, many residents opt for portable cooling rather than full central air systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.