Hyde Park Chicago weather keeps you on your toes! If you’ve heard anyone talk about the weather in the Windy City, you’re sure to have heard some interesting stories. But are they just being dramatic? Is it really that drastic? We break down what to expect each month in Chicago, as well as a list of what you must have to brave the weather year-round.

During warm days in the spring, Hyde Parkers try to be outside as much as possible.

SPRING

Spring in Chicago runs from March through May, give or take. During this time, expect temperatures between 43º F and 56º F (6º C to 13º C) on average. Snow remains common through March. In April, you’re likely to see rain on a weekly basis, so make sure you have the right rain gear! May will start to bring temperatures on the higher average as a daily norm.

In spring, days may begin cool and end up heating up by noon. That in mind, wearing layered clothing is key. Choosing light jackets or long-sleeved shirts with an appropriate shirt underneath makes transitioning into the afternoon more comfortable.

“Bring a coat for cool, but not cold, weather. Bring shoes you can wear in the rain, preferably with good treads.” – Sara M., Ivy Tower

Inside your apartment, you’ll appreciate being able to open your window to allow a breeze in if it feels stuffy inside. Typically, you will not need to run your air conditioning or heat much during these months.

Ivy Greens welcomes its residents home with lush greenery during the summer months.

SUMMER

Nothing compares to summertime in Chicago. Summer runs from June through August, but you can expect warm temperatures into September. Anticipate that your average temperatures will range from 68º F to 80º F (20º C to 27º C). Most days will be sunny or partly cloudy, but you can expect occasional rainfall throughout the season.

Dressing for the weather is important, but keeping in mind your plans for the day is key. Our city can feel humid or muggy during summer. If you’re walking around town, you might get a little sweaty, even if it’s only in the 70’s. Trips to the beach may warrant flip flops or sandals, while bike rides along the lakefront may be better suited for you to wear shorts and a loose tee shirt.

Summer weather certainly heats up apartments quickly. Plan accordingly by having a fan or a/c unit (if your apartment does not include central air) in your apartment. During the day, close your blinds and/or drapes to keep the excess sun (and its heat) out of your apartment. Avoid baking items during summer, as that may increase the temperature in your kitchen.

Don’t worry, though. Most Chicagoans spend the months outdoors exploring during summer, so you likely won’t be inside that much.

Autumn wows Hyde Parkers with its stunning colors.

AUTUMN

As the seasons change and leaves transition into shades of red and yellow, Chicago weather shifts, too. During autumn, which runs from September to November, your daily temperature will fall between 50º F and 62º F (10º C and 17º C) on average. September and October may have an occasional rainstorm, but this isn’t a particularly wet season in Chicago. November is known to have a light snowfall here and there, though.

Like spring, autumn weather benefits from layered clothing. Temperatures sometimes swing upwards or downwards 15º or more during the day. You don’t want to be feeling too cold or randomly sweating because you didn’t come prepared!  When in doubt, opt for closed-toe shoes. They typically won’t overheat you, but they will make a difference if the weather shifts cooler unexpectedly.

“Bring a bunch of different layers of clothes…Being able to mix-and-match for the day’s weather is critical.” – Michael G., Ivy at Shelbyrne

In your apartment, you may opt to open a window during September, but the enjoyment of an outdoor breeze tends to die down in October. If your apartment has a radiator, heat will start coming on at the tail-end of this season, keeping your apartment warm into the coldest time of the year…

WINTER

Winters in Chicago are polarizing. You either love the cold, or you can’t wait for it to end. We can all agree that Chicago is gorgeous when covered in a layer of snow, though, right?

During December to February, temperatures remain around 25º F to 35º F (-4º C to 2º C) on average. It is normal to see ice on the roads and sidewalks, so be on the lookout! As previously mentioned, our area sees a good amount of snow, too. During the middle of January, there is typically some kind of winter storm, whether that be a blizzard, a polar vortex, an ice storm, or just a heavy flurry. Keep in mind that Hyde Park is incredibly close to the lake, so lake effect snow will certainly hit our neighborhood.

“As long as you have good winter clothes you’ll be good. We dont have normal cold weather, it hits your bones.” – Alison L., Ivy at Shelbyrne

In winter, there’s no such thing as too much preparation. You’ll want to invest in a warm winter coat, and you may want to consider a longer coat that goes to your knees or ankles. Look for coats with insulation (either with feathers or a synthetic alternative) and a waterproof shell. Snow and ice melt. If your coat is not waterproof, that water can seep into the coat, making you colder.

Snow boots are highly recommended. These should be waterproof with good treads to help you grip when walking on uneven snow and slippery ice. You may want to go with a lined boot to provide extra coziness. Warm socks are vital to keeping comfortable, too. Look for thick pairs, similar to what you’d choose for a ski trip.

Winter accessories include a hat that covers your ears and/or earmuffs. Gloves allow great mobility of your fingers, while mittens can help keep your fingers toasty. Scarves tucked into your coat will help keep your body heat inward. The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced gaitors to common wardrobes. These are now popular winter accessories to protect your face from blistering winds.

Our residents tend to stay toasty warm during the winter months. Make sure your windows are shut all season to keep the cold weather out. If your apartment feels too warm because of your radiator, simply turn the valve to lessen the amount of heat coming out. Purchasing a rug to go over your wood floors, cooking at home, and shifting your ceiling fan to spin in the opposite direction can all help to keep your apartment feeling comfortable as well.

HYDE PARK CHICAGO WEATHER ESSENTIALS

Below is a condensed list of things you’ll want to be sure to have with you in your new Hyde Park apartment:

umbrella

rainboots

sunglasses

layered clothing–cardigans, sweaters/sweatshirts, tee shirts, jackets or flannels

sandals

sneakers

snow boots

warm coat

scarf and/or gaitor

gloves or mittens

hat and/or earmuffs

thick socks

What essentials would you recommend to a new Hyde Parker? Let us know in the comments below.