🇺🇸 Chicago vs Washington, D.C. 🇺🇸

Chicago, United States vs Washington, D.C., United States — a side-by-side climate comparison to help you pick. Washington, D.C. is the warmer of the two — about 5 degrees warmer on average across the year. Washington, D.C. is drier, with roughly 3 fewer rainy days a year.

Climate at a glance

🇺🇸 Chicago🇺🇸 Washington, D.C.
Avg annual high14°C19°C
Hottest monthJuly (26°C)July (31°C)
Coldest monthFebruary (-7°C low)January (-3°C low)
Rainy days / year194191
SnowRareRare
Best months to visitMay, June, SeptemberApril, May, October

🇺🇸 Chicago

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

🇺🇸 Washington, D.C.

Best around April, May, October. Hottest in July (31°C), coldest lows in January (-3°C).

Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago or Washington, D.C. warmer?

Washington, D.C. is warmer overall, averaging about 5 degrees higher across the year.

Which is rainier, Chicago or Washington, D.C.?

Chicago is rainier — Washington, D.C. sees about 3 fewer rainy days per year.

When is the best time to visit Chicago vs Washington, D.C.?

Chicago is best around May, June, September; Washington, D.C. is best around April, May, October.

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