October · Autumn · Humid continental — genuine four seasons with cold winters and warm summers.
What to pack for Chicago in October
Brutally cold, windy winters and hot, humid summers, all shaped by Lake Michigan.
Travel month
Pick the month you're visiting — the list updates to match.
Share this link to send the Chicago guide — opens with the same travel month selected.
Climate at a glance · October
- Avg high
- 17°C · 63°F
- Avg low
- 8°C · 46°F
- Rain days
- 10
- Daylight
- 11h
Pack for Chicago in October
Anchored on Chicago's October climate.
0 of 9 packed
Base layers
Mid layers
Outer shell & accessories
Footwear
Local quirks & hazards
- Lake-effect wind chill can feel 10°C colder than the forecast.
- Icy sidewalks and slush from December to March.
- Summer thunderstorms off the lake.
Dress & culture in Chicago
- Practical, sporty style; a serious parka is normal in winter.
Leave at home
- A fashion-only coat in winter — you need real insulation.
Chicago month by month
Average high / low and rainy days. Helpful for planning a trip outside this month.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0°C · 32°F | -7°C · 19°F | 11 |
| Feb | 3°C · 37°F | -5°C · 22°F | 9 |
| Mar | 9°C · 47°F | 0°C · 31°F | 11 |
| Apr | 15°C · 60°F | 5°C · 41°F | 12 |
| May | 22°C · 71°F | 11°C · 52°F | 11 |
| Jun | 27°C · 81°F | 17°C · 62°F | 10 |
| Jul | 29°C · 85°F | 20°C · 68°F | 10 |
| Aug | 28°C · 83°F | 19°C · 66°F | 9 |
| Sep | 25°C · 76°F | 15°C · 59°F | 8 |
| Oct | 17°C · 63°F | 8°C · 46°F | 10 |
| Nov | 10°C · 49°F | 2°C · 35°F | 10 |
| Dec | 3°C · 37°F | -4°C · 25°F | 10 |