🇺🇸 Chicago vs Ottawa 🇨🇦

Chicago, United States vs Ottawa, Canada — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Chicago is the warmer of the two — about 2 degrees warmer on average across the year. Chicago is drier, with roughly 13 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇺🇸 Chicago🇨🇦 Ottawa
Avg annual high14°C12°C
Hottest monthJuly (26°C)July (26°C)
Coldest monthFebruary (-7°C low)January (-14°C low)
Rainy days / year194207
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitMay, June, SeptemberMay, June, September

🇺🇸 Chicago

Best around May, June, September. Hottest in July (26°C), coldest lows in February (-7°C).

🇨🇦 Ottawa

Best around May, June, September. Hottest in July (26°C), coldest lows in January (-14°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago or Ottawa warmer?

Chicago is warmer overall, averaging about 2 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Chicago or Ottawa?

Ottawa is rainier — Chicago sees about 13 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Chicago vs Ottawa?

Chicago is best around May, June, September; Ottawa is best around May, June, September.

Not sure? Find your ideal destination by climate →