Chicago is 2 hours ahead of Phoenix during standard time (November to March). Phoenix uses Mountain Standard Time (MST, UTC-7) while Chicago uses Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6).
However, Arizona does not observe daylight saving time. During Chicago's daylight saving time (March to November), the difference reduces to 1 hour as Chicago moves to UTC-5 while Phoenix stays at UTC-7.
Best calling time: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM Phoenix time. This covers Chicago's business hours regardless of the season.
Phoenix and Chicago are major business centers with growing tech sectors. Many snowbirds from Chicago winter in Phoenix. Direct flights take about 3.5 hours.