Chicago (IL) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Chicago.
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
Visitors to Chicago can expect significant temperature changes throughout the year. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July to a very cold -1°C (30°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 19°C (66°F) in July to around -9°C (16°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Chicago
Chicago is known for its substantial rain/snowfall, with annual precipitation reaching 1062 mm (42 in). The climate in Chicago shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in June, the wettest month, with an average of 126 mm (5 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 50 mm (2 in) of snowfall over 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
For those who appreciate different seasons, Chicago serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in July with an average of 10.6 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 3.6 hours of daily sunlight.
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 average wind speed over the year ranges from 4 m/s (8 knots) to 6 m/s (12 knots). It is lower in June, July, August and September and higher 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 weather does bring rainfall during this period, between 95 mm (3.7 in) and 126 mm (5 in). Planning your next adventure but unsure where to go? Our climate tool suggests perfect locations tailored to your preferred weather conditions. Discover your ideal travel destination with our weather planner.
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.
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 (IL) 3-Day Forecast
Chicago on the map
Chicago is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
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