Chicago Weather in October
October in Chicago typically sees daytime highs of 17°C (63°F) and nighttime lows of 7°C (45°F). Rainfall is also possible this month, so it's worth packing an umbrella.
Rainfall in Chicago in October
Climate statistics over the past 30 years suggest around 12 days of rain, with 76 mm (3 in) average for the month. Neither particularly heavy nor particularly frequent, the rain this month is about average. A light jacket should be enough on most wet days.
Temperature in Chicago in October
Expect highs of 17°C (63°F) in Chicago in October, with nights dropping to around 7°C (45°F). Temperatures can feel cooler in the morning and evening, so layering is often the best approach. With overnight lows of 7°C (45°F), nights are cold. The cold air does make for deep, comfortable sleep if you have enough blankets.
Sunshine in Chicago in October
There are approximately 195 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.
Wind Speed in Chicago in October
Average wind conditions reach 5 m/s (10 knots) in October. This creates lively weather with fresh winds that make small trees sway noticeably. Remember this is an average: some days are less windy while others have particularly active windy conditions.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. September typically offers the best weather for Chicago.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Chicago's climate page.
Chicago Temperature in October
Min Temperature
7°C (45°F)
Max Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Chance of Rain
39%
Precipitation
76 mm (3 in)
Rainy days
12 days
Humidity
68%
Windspeed
5 m/s (10 knots)
Sunshine
195 hours
Percentage Sunshine
56%
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Chicago typically drop from around 20°C (68°F) at the start of October to approximately 14°C (57°F) by the end. Nights are cold, with lows typically ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 10°C (50°F).
Average temperatures in October
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in October
Historical weather for Chicago in October
Browse day-by-day weather records for Chicago spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Chicago historical weather extremes in October
Based on weather observations in Chicago between 1976 and 2025, these are the recorded extremes during October.
- The warmest day in October was on October 3, 2025, with a maximum of 31°C (88°F).
- Chicago registered its coldest October night on October 24, 1981, with temperatures dropping to -7°C (19°F).
Best Places in the United States of America in October
Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in October →
perfect weather
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What to Wear in Chicago in October
For Chicago in October, you'll want flexible clothing. It's wise to pack cotton shirts, comfortable shorts, and a pair of jeans for cooler evenings. A light sweater or jacket is useful for air-conditioned spaces (like buses) or unexpected cool moments. Rain is likely on several days, so bring a good rain jacket. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.What To Do in Chicago in October
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit the United States of America, check out our Chicago's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Chicago climate overview or explore weather in the United States of America.
