🇺🇸 San Diego vs 🇺🇸 Chicago

Weather Comparison

Current Weather Right Now

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San Diego

broken clouds

77°F

Broken Clouds

Feels like 77°F

H 85°F / L 73°F

Humidity: 44%

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Chicago

few clouds

52°F

Few Clouds

Feels like 49°F

H 54°F / L 51°F

Humidity: 39%

Climate Overview

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San Diego

San Diego has arguably the best climate of any major US city — mild year-round with average highs around 70°F. The Pacific Ocean moderates temperatures dramatically, and the city rarely sees extremes. June Gloom brings marine layer clouds through the early summer, while Santa Ana winds can push temperatures into the 90s in fall.

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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🇺🇸 San Diego🇺🇸 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

San Diego vs Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions

Does San Diego or Chicago have better weather?

San Diego and Chicago have very different climates. San Diego has arguably the best climate of any major US city — mild year-round with average highs ar 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 San Diego vs Chicago?

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

More Comparisons

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