🇺🇸 Chicago vs 🇺🇸 Durham

Weather Comparison

Current Weather Right Now

🇺🇸

Chicago

overcast clouds

41°F

Overcast Clouds

Feels like 33°F

H 42°F / L 40°F

Humidity: 89%

🇺🇸

Durham

scattered clouds

69°F

Scattered Clouds

Feels like 68°F

H 70°F / L 68°F

Humidity: 69%

Climate Overview

🇺🇸

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.

🇺🇸

Durham

Durham is the 'Bull City' with Duke University and NC Central University in the Research Triangle. The city has transformed from tobacco industry to medical research center. Duke's East and West campuses provide significant green space and tree cover that moderates Durham's Piedmont heat island.

Seasonal Comparison

Season🇺🇸 Chicago🇺🇸 Durham
Spring

35–65°F

March–May

Summer

70–84°F

June–August

Fall

45–68°F

September–November

Winter

17–32°F

December–February

Chicago vs Durham: Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chicago or Durham have better weather?

Chicago and Durham have very different climates. Humid continental — cold harsh winters, hot humid summers, severe storms Durham: Durham is the 'Bull City' with Duke University and NC Central University in the Research Triangle. T. The best city depends on your preferred season and temperature range.

When is the best time to visit Chicago vs Durham?

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

More Comparisons

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