As of 2022, the magnetic declination (variation) for New York City is:
13° 22' West (or -13°22')
This means a magnetic compass points 13 degrees 22 minutes west of true geographic north. Declination changes gradually over time (currently shifting eastward ~1' per year in this region).
Critical for navigation: Always check the current value before using a compass for precise land navigation, surveying, or orienteering. Use NOAA's Magnetic Declination Calculator or updated topographic maps for the latest figure.