Relocating is already difficult and dealing with Chicago’s unpredictable weather can make it even more stressful. That’s why experienced home and business movers in Chicago always take the season into account when planning a move. Being prepared is the best way to keep things running smoothly and having backup plans helps everything stay on schedule. Below are some major weather factors to keep in mind when moving in Chicago.

Seasonal Moving Advice for Chicago Residents

Illinois goes through a wide range of very different seasons. Hot, humid summers give way to beautiful fall months, filled with colorful leaves but often darker, cloudier days. And then winter arrives. Everyone has something to say about an Illinois winter — some comments are good, others not so much — especially when you’re spending that winter in Chicago.

When planning a trip or a move during the cold, windy season, it’s helpful to understand Chicago weather and what you might face. Snowy Chicago winters can be beautiful, offering snow-covered, scenic views and charming holiday light displays. Below is a guide on Chicago temperature and snowfall norms, along with some simple tips to make any snow-filled trip easier.

Chicago Winter-Weather Statistics

First, let’s start by asking: how cold does it get in Chicago? The answer is… it varies. On average, temperatures hover around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Highs between 30–38 degrees Fahrenheit are common during the winter months from late November to early March which is cold enough for snow to form, fall and build up.

How often does it snow? Estimates from O’Hare Airport place the yearly average at 28.5 days, while the Botanical Gardens just outside the city reports 22.3 days. Typically, Chicago’s first snowfall shows up in November, though one out of every four years doesn’t see snow until December. April usually brings the final snowfall of the season but it’s generally less than a quarter inch.

How much snowfall does Chicago get each year? Around 37 inches, although that number can change a lot from season to season. For example, a National Centers for Environmental Information (NOAA) report shows that from 2010 to 2019, the yearly average was 42.8 inches over 11.6 days. The snowiest January in the report reached 15.5 inches, while the lightest years saw five inches or less. It’s clear that snowfall is hard to predict — all you can do is be prepared.

Tips for Surviving & Thriving During a Chicago Winter Move

Chicago winters can be tough but with the right preparation you can stay safe while getting settled in your new home. From smart driving habits to enjoying outdoor activities, here are some quick tips for winter living and moving in the Windy City.

  • Maintain your car and make sure it’s prepared for winter road conditions.
  • Sustain ample following room when driving in the city’s famously heavy traffic.
  • Store an emergency kit in the vehicle.
  • Keep healthy foods around to help lift your mood and avoid relying too much on take-out.
  • Watch the city light up over a million lights along Michigan Avenue during the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival.
  • Check out Chicago’s Christkindlmarket for traditional German food and drinks.
  • Take a ride on the Holiday Train.
  • Visit the Lincoln Park Conservatory for a break from the snow.

Advance preparation is the key to handling a relocation during Chicago’s tough winter months. By planning ahead and following a few simple tips, you can make the experience easier while your moving team handles the packing, loading and transportation. Whether you need apartment movers to help with a local move or storage services to keep your belongings for a short time, having the right support in place will make the entire process much less stressful.

Ways to Stay Active While Preparing for a Move in Winter

From planning and decluttering to packing and arranging furniture, a relocation can disrupt your normal routine. With the tips below, you can stay physically active while still getting all your moving tasks done.

  • Make Regular Plans for Physical Activity – Whether you meet friends for a favorite winter sport or try indoor rock climbing, there are plenty of ways to stay active during the dark winter months. These activities get everyone moving and being social can help lift your mood during the long season.
  • Join a Gym – It may be too cold for a jog along the lake but using the treadmill at a nearby gym is always an option. Look around your area for a place to exercise when the weather turns.
  • Enlist a Gym Accountability Buddy – Don’t let winter become an excuse to stop exercising. Setting workout days and times with a partner is a great way to stay on track with your fitness goals.

While you may feel tempted to handle the heavy lifting yourself, it’s best to let professionals take care of the loading and unloading. As you can see, there are plenty of ways to stay active during a move without putting yourself at risk of injury. Experienced movers are well trained and use proper equipment to make sure everything goes smoothly, without causing harm to anyone or anything.

Words of Advice on Dressing Appropriately for Moving

Layering

The importance of dressing in layers cannot be emphasized enough. It may sound simple but going from a –10 degrees Fahrenheit sidewalk into a warm, 72 degrees Fahrenheit room can feel shocking. Prepare for it by bundling up against the icy wind and removing layers as needed once you’re indoors. Layering also helps you stay ready for any unexpected changes in the weather forecast. Even trained experts often find themselves asking, how bad is winter in Chicago?

Headwear

Whether you like a wool hat or a fleece one, it’s important to keep your head covered. Use a scarf to block the wind or choose a neck gaiter if you want something easier that doesn’t need constant adjusting. Low-profile earmuffs are also a great winter accessory. The main thing is to protect your head, ears and neck. Finally, keep lip balm and lotion on hand to prevent your lips and skin from drying out and cracking.

Bodywear

You’ll want to invest in an insulated, heavy-duty — maybe even puffy — coat. You won’t need it every single day but you definitely will when it’s 10 degrees Fahrenheit below, the snow is blowing around and the wind chill drops to –20 degrees Fahrenheit. Features like zip-out linings and cinch-close cuffs are helpful to look for.

For your lower body, jeans usually won’t be enough to block the cold. Try wearing long underwear underneath, wool pants or flannel-lined jeans. Also, choosing darker clothing can help hide the wet spots and dirt you pick up while walking through slushy snow.

Hands and Feet

Protect your extremities with water-resistant, insulated gear. Lined gloves and mittens are important, and having a few different weights and lengths is very helpful. The same goes for socks. Heavy wool socks are great but can sometimes get too warm, so having a variety lets you dress based on the conditions.

While the city usually does a good job clearing snow, there will still be times when you walk through slush and snow. Invest in waterproof winter boots with good traction to help prevent slips or falls.

Stay Warm During Your Chicago Move

If you’re planning a move in the middle of winter, consider hiring professionals who understand the area and know how to handle dangerous driving conditions. At STI Moving & Storage, our experienced team is prepared for whatever weather comes their way. Let us help you get through even the coldest winter moves. Call (847) 675-1223 or schedule your free quote online.