Yosemite National Park is definitely worth a visit
Vast forests, blue lakes, towering sequoias, and majestic waterfalls hint at the beauty of Yosemite National Park—a true natural masterpiece.
Chicago (IL) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Chicago.
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10-day forecastForecast
Climate overview of Chicago
On a typical summer day, humidity is usually high and temperatures ordinarily reach anywhere between 26°C (79°F) and 33°C (91°F). Overnight temperatures in summer usually drop to around 18°C (64°F). Thunderstorms occur during summer.
The best time to visit Chicago is May through September. Where the residents of Chicago prefer to stay indoors between November and March, they open the doors and celebrate starting April. This period the city comes alive since the sun increases in strength and occasionally rises above the skyscrapers. It can be a bit busy during this period so it is recommended to book a place to stay in advance.
Chicago Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Chicago - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Chicago
The climate in Chicago is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July. In January, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a very cold -1°C (30°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 19°C (66°F) in July to -9°C (16°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Chicago
Chicago has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 1062 mm (42 in) of rain/snowfall per year. Chicago can be quite wet during June, receiving approximately 126 mm (5 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (January), you will experience much drier conditions, with 50 mm (2 in) of precipitation spread across 10 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Chicago Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Chicago
Chicago can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 10.6 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in December, with only 3.6 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Chicago by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Chicago.
The city experiences its highest humidity in December, reaching 76%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 64%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Chicago
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) in June, July, August and September to 6 m/s (12 knots) in January, March and April. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Chicago
The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Chicago is usually found in September. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March, November and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
very cold
Feb
cold
Mar
cold
Apr
mixed
May
very good
Jun
very good
Jul
very good
Aug
very good
Sep
excellent
Oct
good
Nov
cold
Dec
cold
- Best overall: September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Fewest rainy days: February, September and November
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -9°C (16°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Chicago
What is the best time to visit Chicago?
September typically offers the most optimal weather in Chicago. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Chicago has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Chicago?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -9°C (16°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Chicago get?
Annual rainfall is around 1062 mm (42 in). June is the wettest month with 126 mm (5 in), while January is the driest with 50 mm (2 in).
How sunny is Chicago?
Chicago receives around 2,509 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 319 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 107 hours. Overall, Chicago enjoys abundant sunshine.
Chicago 3-Day Forecast
Chicago on the map
Chicago is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in November
Where to go in November - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Miami Beach
27°C (81°F) Orlando25°C (77°F) Kissimmee26°C (79°F) Destin21°C (70°F) Los Angeles22°C (72°F) Big Bear Lake14°C (57°F) New York City
13°C (55°F) Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Yosemite National Park is definitely worth a visit
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