ClimateForecastJanuaryFebruary >>

Chicago weather in January (Illinois, United States of America)

How's the weather trend in Chicago as January approaches? Want to know if this month is ideal for visiting? Our guide provides detailed weather information.

Temperatures

In January, Chicago typically experiences very low temperatures and moderate snowfall. Experience the winter season in January. In the daytime, temperatures tend to hover near -1°C, cooling down at night to around -9°C. With temperatures often at their lowest, this month is coldest of the year. Ideal for indoor activities, be sure to pack warm clothing.

Precipitation

Chicago in January usually receives moderate snowfall, averaging around 50 mm for the month. Known for its minimal rainfall, this month is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Take advantage of the dry conditions to explore and enjoy various activities. Historically, approximately 10 days this month are expected to have snow.

Average sunshine

The month brings about 133 hours of sunlight, offering a comfortable mix of sun and shade.

If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Chicago. September typically offers the best circumstances. While January, February, March, November and December tend to showcase less optimal conditions.

For an in-depth look at the yearly conditions, visit our specialized Chicago climate page with graphs.

 

Chicago, monthly averages in January

Min TemperatureMin Temperature -9°C  
Max TemperatureMax Temperature -1°C  
Chance of RainChance of Rain 34%  
PrecipitationPrecipitation 50 mm  
Rainy daysRainy days 10 days  
HumidityHumidity 72%  
WindspeedWindspeed 22 km/h  
SunshineSunshine 133 hours  
Percentage SunshinePercentage Sunshine 46%  

Where to go in the United States of America in January

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month.

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Legend perfect weather pleasant tolerable unpleasant poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C and 29°C and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm a month).

So, what should you wear in this month?

Visitors traveling to Chicago should plan on bringing winter clothes, snow boots and a warm winter coat. There will be periods of snow.

What To Do

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

Swimming
5/10
Cycling
1/10
Walking
1/10
Outdoor sports
1/10

Interested in more climate information?

This site provides you with all the information you need about the climate in Chicago.

Our site offers climate and forecast data for every country in the world. Are you going to the United States of America? On this website you can find historical weather averages for many cities in the United States of America. Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.