Chicago

What's the weather like in Chicago in January?

Chicago is in the state of Illinois in the Midwest United States. The city sits on the southwest shores of Lake Michigan, which has a big influence on the weather. With a continental climate bringing warm summers and cold winters, you can expect things to be freezing cold if you’re visiting in January. Make sure you prepare for the chilly conditions and chance of snow. Pack a thick winter coat, along with a hat, scarf and gloves.

Averages

In January, the average temperature in Chicago is an icy -6ºC, reaching highs of just -1ºC and lows of -11ºC. Don’t forget to pack your warmest coat, as well as plenty of base layers. Although it’s cold, there are four hours of daily sunshine from the ten hours of daylight, and it’s lovely when you feel the sun on a clear day. Around 45mm of rain’s forecast during January, spread over eight days, so you can expect any showers to be light and brief.