Month-by-month travel weather

Chicago May weather

Chicago, United States · May

Nice daytime weather, cooler evenings

May often brings more comfortable walking weather and greener city routes.

Wind and passing showers can still shift the feel quickly, and evenings can cool down.

May averages at a glance

Average low

around 10–13°C

Average high

around 19–23°C

Average precipitation

around 80–110 mm

Rainy days

about 9–12 days

What to wear in May in Chicago

Actual feel will change with wind and rain, but use the suggestions below to build a comfortable layered outfit.

  • Mix of tees/long sleeves + a thin outer layer.
  • Optional rain option.
  • A thin evening layer helps.

Travel tips for visiting Chicago in May

  • Good weather can stretch outdoor time—plan for evening cool-down.
  • Wet pavement after showers can slow walking pace.

May weather in Chicago — FAQ

Q. Does May feel like summer?

A. Sometimes, but cooler and breezier days still happen.

Q. Is May rainy?

A. Rain is fairly common, though not always all-day rain.

Explore Chicago

These pages are connected so you can compare conditions and decide for yourself.

Chicago May weather — averages & travel outfits | CityWeather | CityWeather