Verdict

In Chicago, November has a distinct autumn feel. As the season moves along, temperatures are dropping quickly. You can usually expect a cold month that feels manageable day to day. Breezes can be part of the character, especially in exposed spots.

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 High
Avg Low
Rain
Daylight
10h
What to expect
  • Temperature feel - Cooler air with a gentle drop-off once the sun goes down. It often feels a touch cooler in the shade.
  • Showers & dry spells - Showery bursts. Showers tend to come in pulses rather than lingering. Wet breaks can interrupt outdoor plans.
  • Sun exposure - Sun is noticeable. If you're out for hours, sunscreen is worth it. Even short walks can add up.
  • Exposure - Refreshing breezes, and gusts can make exposed walks feel cooler and more blustery. It’s the kind of wind you plan around for viewpoints and coastal walks.
November in context

How it compares to the rest of the year in Chicago.

Hottest (avg)
#8 / 12
Wettest (avg)
#9 / 12
Daylight Hours
#10 / 12
Windiest (avg)
#1 / 12
Highest UV
#10 / 12
Most Humid
#9 / 12

Temperature

Daytime high
Nighttime low
Feels like (avg)

Sunshine

Daylight
9.8 hours
UV index (max)
4
Typical sun hours
06:40 – 16:30

Rain & Snow

Total
Rainy days
11
Cloud cover
62%
Snowfall

Humidity & Wind

Humidity (avg)
71%
Wind (avg)
Wind (max gusts)

Frequently asked questions

Is November a good time to visit Chicago?

Typical November days in Chicago reach highs of 9°C (48°F) with nights around 2°C (36°F). It usually feels chilly by day and cold after dark. Overall, November sits in the middle of the Chicago climate range.

What are temperatures like in November?

In November, you can usually expect highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows near 2°C (36°F). That means chilly days and cold nights, so pack layers you can add or remove.

How much does it rain in November?

Rainfall in November averages 66 mm (2.6 in) across roughly 11 days. Overall it is a quite rainy time of year, so a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes are very handy.

How many hours of daylight are there in November?

You can expect about 10 hours of daylight in November. Sunrise is typically around 06:40 and sunset near 16:30. Days are on the shorter side, so plan activities around limited daylight.

How strong is the sun in November?

UV levels are moderate (around 4); sunscreen and sunglasses are still a good idea.

Is it windy in November?

In November, average wind speeds are around 18 km/h (11 mph), with gusts on the windiest days reaching about 59 km/h (37 mph). On the ground, it is it can feel quite windy at times, particularly when weather systems move through.

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