Due to Chicago’s popularity, many highly acclaimed industries have found their home in this midwestern metropolis. With so many companies headquartered in the Windy City, the job market remains steady and competitive. You’ll find everything from small, locally-owned businesses all the way to international Fortune 500 companies. Whether you’re a creative writer or a financial consultant, there’s an industry here for everyone. Recently graduated and trying to get your foot in the door? Looking to switch up your current career path? Read on for our researched and curated list of the best companies headquartered in Chicago!
If you’re planning on relocating to Chicago for work or want to live closer to your office, reach out to AptAmigo. With local experts and access to the best deals on the market, you’ll find the apartment that’s perfect for you.
The Best Companies Headquartered in Chicago
McDonald’s
Located: 110 N Carpenter St, Chicago, IL 60607
McDonald’s is known worldwide for its speedy service and mouth-watering Big Mac’s. Founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald, the restaurant chain’s humble beginnings started in 1940 in San Bernardino, California. However, the corporate headquarters have settled for the second time in the Windy City! Once located in Chicago, from 1955 through 1971, McDonald’s made the official move back to the Midwest in 2018. But this time, they have an exciting new development attached to their corporate office: a global restaurant located at the ground level of the building. Featuring regional McDonald’s selections from around the world, you can try a taste of any country from this one location! Check out Hong Kong’s breakfast sandwich, France’s salads, and Italy’s McFlurry all in one visit! This addition is referred to as the “McDonald’s Experience of the Future,” which speaks to the obvious growth and wealth of opportunity that is found there!
Northern Trust
Located: 181 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60602
Founded in a tiny downtown Chicago office in 1889, Northern Trust has become a well-known name in the financial service industry. Byron Laflin Smith founded Northern Trust 131 years ago, making it not only one of the oldest banking institutions in continuous operation, but also one of the biggest in the United States to date. With a focus on institutional investors, high net worth individuals, and corporations, Northern Trust’s dedication to wealth management has landed them on the 2019 “Fortune 1000” list! If a company like this can survive the Great Depression, they can definitely survive anything else that gets thrown their way. Finding a solid career path through Northern Trust would be worth its weight in gold!
Allstate
Located: 2775 Sanders Rd. Northbrook, IL 60062
Since 1967, the Allstate headquarters has been located just north of the city, in a town called Northbrook. We all know the insurance company’s slogan, “Are you in good hands?”, however, coming in 79th in the 2019 “Fortune 500” list really drives that sentiment home! This steadfast insurance company has continued to grow since its humble beginnings in 1931, even expanding into other countries such as Ireland, Canada, and India. With insurance being required for many things, securing employment with Allstate will provide you with a stable and enriching career path.
Conagra Brands
Located: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza Chicago, IL 60654
Conagra Brands was founded in 1919 by Frank Little and Alva Kinney. The company manufactures various food products and sells them to restaurants, supermarkets, and establishments across the country. They are responsible for producing many familiar brand names, including Gardein, Orville Redenbacher’s, Udi’s, Slim Jim, and Duncan Hines. While originally starting in Nebraska, this company opened it’s Chicago headquarters in 2015! With a range of career options: from marketing to merchandising to manufacturing, Conagra Brands has something for everyone.
Related: 10 Insider Tips to Find Your Dream Chicago Apartment
AptAmigo
Located: 171 N Aberdeen St #400, Chicago, IL 60607
Founded in 2015, AptAmigo was developed to bring transparency and honesty within the traditional apartment broker industry. Dan Willenborg, Co-founder and CEO, set out to offer a full-service apartment locating agency that takes all the stress out of hunting for your dream space. With its roots based in Chicago, AptAmigo has since expanded to Denver, Atlanta, and Nashville.
Are you looking to work in one of the fastest-growing industries? Great news: AptAmigo is hiring! With open positions in marketing, operations, and sales, there are plenty of opportunities to work within this successful start-up. AptAmigo boasts a positive, welcoming environment with supportive coworkers who are willing to lend a hand whenever they can.
For available positions and requirements, click here.
Find Your Dream Chicago Apartment
There you have it, the best companies headquartered in Chicago! Whether you’re moving to Chicago for a new job or seeking an apartment close to your office, AptAmigo can help. Just reach out and we’ll pair you with one of our apartment experts who will help you find the perfect place. The best part? It’s 100% free!
Learn more about how to find an apartment in Chicago here.
Rebecca is a freelance writer with eight years of journalism experience. She recently graduated with a BA in Communications and a minor in journalism. She currently bartends in downtown Chicago and spends her free time exploring the city and making connections.