Avg High
Chicago in April
Verdict
In Chicago, April has a distinct spring feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are climbing noticeably. You can usually expect a cool month that feels variable day to day. It often has a mild but frequently damp, typical of changeable seasons feel, especially for outdoor plans.
It suits travellers who want straightforward weather for sightseeing and day trips. Lookouts and coastal walks can feel sharper when the wind is up.
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
13h
What to expect
- Daytime feel - Cooler air with a noticeable cool-down after sunset. It can feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
- Showers & dry spells - Rainy conditions. Waterproof footwear becomes genuinely useful. Outdoor plans benefit from flexibility.
- Midday sun - Strong sun. Cloud cover doesn't always mean low UV, so still protect your skin. Even short walks can add up.
- Breezes - Often breezy, and gusts can make exposed walks feel cooler and more blustery. A light outer layer helps when you’re in the shade.
April in context
How it compares to the rest of the year in Chicago.
Hottest (avg)
#7 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#3 / 12
Daylight Hours
#5 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#3 / 12
Highest UV
#5 / 12
Most Humid
#8 / 12
Temperature
- Daytime high
-
- Nighttime low
-
- Feels like (avg)
-
Sunshine
- Daylight
- 13.4 hours
- UV index (max)
- 7
- Typical sun hours
- 05:08 – 18:31
Rain & Snow
- Total
-
- Rainy days
- 15
- Cloud cover
- 63%
- Snowfall
-
Humidity & Wind
- Humidity (avg)
- 71%
- Wind (avg)
-
- Wind (max gusts)
-
Frequently asked questions
Is April a good time to visit Chicago?
Typical April days in Chicago reach highs of 13°C (55°F) with nights around 4°C (39°F). It usually feels cool by day and cold after dark. It is among the wetter months, so it is wise to have some indoor backup plans or flexible activities.
What are temperatures like in April?
Daytime temperatures in April typically peak near 13°C (55°F), while nights drop to around 4°C (39°F). Expect cool afternoons and cold evenings.
How much does it rain in April?
Rainfall in April averages 105 mm (4.1 in) across roughly 15 days. Overall it is a very wet time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.
How many hours of daylight are there in April?
You can expect about 13 hours of daylight in April. Sunrise is typically around 05:08 and sunset near 18:31. You get long days with comfortable amounts of daylight.
How strong is the sun in April?
UV levels are often high (around 7). Regular sunscreen and a hat are recommended.
Is it windy in April?
In April, average wind speeds are around 17 km/h (11 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 64 km/h (40 mph). On the ground, it is it is a notably windy place, and strong gusts are fairly common.