Typical Run Score
61
Mixed
Chicago · January
Running in Chicago in January
Typical January running conditions in Chicago — and a live Run Score so you can see how today compares with the norm.
Avg temperature
26°F
Cold
Avg dew point
19°F
Comfortable
Best window
7 AM–11 PM
Local time
Chicago · today vs the January normTemperature · dew point · wind · timing
How January compares in Chicago
January ranks 12th of 12 months for running in Chicago, with a typical daytime Run Score of 61 (Mixed). It's the toughest month of the year here — temperatures around 26°F (-4°C) with comfortable dew points near 19°F. Precipitation falls in roughly 21% of hours this month. Use the live tool below to see how today actually compares with the January norm.
Running weather in nearby cities
Same engine, different climate. Check the best time to run in these cities too.
Running in Chicago in January: FAQ
Is it good to run in Chicago in January?
It's runnable, but at least one factor — usually heat or dew point — taxes the effort. The typical daytime Run Score is 61 (Mixed), with temperatures around 26°F (-4°C) and comfortable dew points. The best window is usually 7 AM–11 PM.
How hot is it for running in Chicago in January?
Typical temperatures average 26°F (-4°C) (Cold) with dew points near 19°F. Dew point — not the thermometer — usually decides how hard the run feels.
What is a good Run Score?
Scores run 0–100. 97+ is Perfect, 80–96 is Great — conditions are actively working in your favour. 65–79 (Good) is solid. 45–64 (Mixed) means at least one factor — usually heat or dew point — is taxing you. Below 45 (Poor), expect a noticeably harder effort or hold back for safety.
Why does dew point matter more than temperature?
Your body cools by evaporating sweat. When the dew point climbs above roughly 60°F, the air is too saturated for sweat to evaporate efficiently, so heat builds up even if the thermometer looks reasonable. That's why a 70°F muggy morning can feel harder than a dry 80°F afternoon.
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