Chicago in January
Winter in Chicago: expect cold weather with highs of 0°C.
Photo: Pedro Lastra / Unsplash
January Weather in Chicago
🌡️
Average High
0°C
❄️
Average Low
-6°C
🌧️
Rain Days
12
🌤️
Season
Winter
What to Expect
January in Chicago brings cold weather with daytime highs around 0°C and nighttime lows of -6°C. You can expect approximately 12 days of rain during the month. This is off-peak season with fewer tourists. You will find lower prices and shorter queues at attractions.
Packing tip: Bring warm clothing, a heavy coat, and waterproof gear for cold conditions. An umbrella or rain jacket is essential.
January Costs in Chicago
Budget
USD 150
per day
Mid-Range
USD 350
per day
Luxury
USD 700
per day
💡 January is off-peak, so you may find better deals on accommodation and flights.
Things to Do in Chicago in January
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Chicago
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Chicago Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Chicago on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Chicago Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Chicago with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Chicago: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Chicago's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Chicago: Scenic Excursion
Escape Chicago for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Chicago Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Chicago's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Hotels in Chicago for January
Compare deals across thousands of hotels on Expedia.
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FAQ: Chicago in January
What is the weather like in Chicago in January?
Chicago in January has average highs of 0°C and lows of -6°C, with around 12 rainy days. The weather is generally cold.
Is January a good time to visit Chicago?
January is off-peak in Chicago. While the weather may not be ideal, you will find lower prices and fewer tourists.
How crowded is Chicago in January?
January is a quieter time in Chicago. You will have popular attractions mostly to yourself.
How much does it cost to visit Chicago in January?
Budget travellers can get by on around USD 150/day. Mid-range travellers should budget USD 350/day. Off-peak pricing means you may find better deals on accommodation.
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