Cook County Climate

Cook County, Illinois

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50.3°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

50.3°F

Annual Precip

38.6"

Annual Snowfall

33.6"

Extreme Heat Days

20.3375

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
2.0"
1.8"
2.2"
3.8"
4.6"
4.5"
3.9"
4.2"
3.4"
3.5"
2.6"
2.1"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring38°60°10.6"Summer70°74°12.6"Fall40°66°9.4"Winter24°30°5.9"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 32% of US counties
Wetter than 42% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 77% of US counties

Climate Profile

About Cook County Weather

Much cooler than the national temperature median

Cook County’s annual average of 50.3°F is significantly cooler than the national median. This reflects its northern position and the cooling influence of the Great Lakes.

One of the coolest counties in Illinois

Cook is one of the coolest counties in the state, sitting 2.5 degrees below the Illinois average of 52.8°F. It receives less rain than the state average but experiences much more snowfall.

The snowiest county in the region

With 33.6 inches of snow, Cook is the snowiest county in this set, more than doubling the accumulation of Coles County. Its 20 extreme heat days are the lowest among these eight counties.

Severe winters and lake-tempered summers

Winters are cold and snowy, with a January average of 24.1°F and over 33 inches of snow. Summers are tempered by Lake Michigan, resulting in a mild July average of 74.4°F and relatively few 90-degree days.

Prepare for heavy snow and cold winters

Heavy-duty snow blowers and high-quality winter coats are essential for the 33.6 inches of annual snow. Energy-efficient heating is a priority for the 27.1°F winter average, while summers remain generally mild.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Cook County?
The average annual temperature in Cook County, IL is 50.3°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Cook County get?
Cook County receives an average of 38.6 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Cook County?
Yes, Cook County receives an average of 33.6 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Cook County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Cook County is 72.3°F. The county experiences an average of 20.3375 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Cook County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Cook County is 27.1°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 24.1°F.

Track your own weather in Cook County

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Data source: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020.

Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables computed from 1991 to 2020. Station data is aggregated to county level using spatial averaging. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.

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