🇺🇸 Charleston vs 🇺🇸 Chicago

Weather Comparison

Current Weather Right Now

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Charleston

broken clouds

57°F

Broken Clouds

Feels like 54°F

H 60°F / L 55°F

Humidity: 56%

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Chicago

clear sky

51°F

Clear Sky

Feels like 48°F

H 54°F / L 48°F

Humidity: 43%

Climate Overview

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Charleston

Charleston, West Virginia's capital, sits at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers in a dramatic mountain river valley. The Appalachian Mountains create cold air pooling, valley fog, and can amplify flooding. The chemical industry corridor along the Kanawha Valley has created industrial weather effects while the mountains provide scenic surroundings.

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Chicago

Humid continental — cold harsh winters, hot humid summers, severe storms

Best monthsMay, June, September
AvoidJanuary, February, March (brutal cold)
Annual rain38 inches (965 mm)

Chicago lives up to its Windy City nickname. Lake Michigan creates its own microclimate — cooler summers and heavier lake-effect snow in winter. Summers are warm but brief; winters are among the harshest of any major American city.

Seasonal Comparison

Season🇺🇸 Charleston🇺🇸 Chicago
Spring

35–65°F

March–May

Summer

70–84°F

June–August

Fall

45–68°F

September–November

Winter

17–32°F

December–February

Charleston vs Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions

Does Charleston or Chicago have better weather?

Charleston and Chicago have very different climates. Charleston, West Virginia's capital, sits at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers in a drama Chicago: Humid continental — cold harsh winters, hot humid summers, severe storms. The best city depends on your preferred season and temperature range.

When is the best time to visit Charleston vs Chicago?

Best time for Charleston: spring and fall. Best time for Chicago: May, June, September.

More Comparisons

🇺🇸 Charleston Weather →🇺🇸 Chicago Weather →