Apartment Hunting in Chicago
Chicago is one of the United States’ most competitive rental markets, but there is a right way—and a wrong way—to apartment hunt here.
Most would-be renters find it challenging to search for an apartment in Chicago’s competitive market. With so many units to choose from, even after narrowing down your neighborhood and commute distance, selecting an apartment can become a headache. The Windy City offers thousands of apartment units with a wide range of features, including luxury apartments, condos, high-rises, and mid-rises. From floor-to-ceiling windows and luxury penthouses, to quaint walk-ups and renovated lofts, decision overload can set in fast. If you’re wondering how to find a place that fits your lifestyle perfectly and checks all your boxes, this guide on how to find an apartment in Chicago will teach you how to do so while avoiding all the stress.
Related: AptAmigo’s Best New Apartment Buildings
Chicago Apartment Locators
In a rental market as competitive as Chicago’s, brokers and locators have become the preferred way to find an apartment.
Apartment locating services provide done-for-you apartment hunting. With their support, you get a local expert committed to helping you find your dream space with no stress or additional cost. Because of their expert knowledge of the city and buildings, they can help you find the area that flawlessly fits your lifestyle. All you need to do is reach out and let them know your preferences. Then, using their local insight and apartment expertise, they’ll narrow down the list of units that fit you perfectly. Once you choose your favorites from the list, they’ll schedule an entire day of tours to your top buildings. The best part? This service is 100% free!
However, we recommend choosing an apartment locator who specializes in leases over a traditional broker in order to avoid unnecessary headaches in your apartment hunt. Our article, “6 Reasons to Avoid Chicago Rental Brokers,” outlines why. Apartment hunting mustn’t always be a pain, as long as you read up on what to avoid beforehand.
The #1 apartment locating service in Chicago, AptAmigo, has helped thousands of happy clients find their dream apartment.
Which Chicago Neighborhood Should You Live in?
Each Chicago neighborhood comes with its own vibe and appeal. Whether you care more about green space and pet-friendly living, or a state-of-the-art gym facility in a bustling area, you will find a space that matches your lifestyle.
Popular Chicago Neighborhoods
River North
Live here if:
You want the bustling energy of fellow grinders to energize and inspire you. Located just north of the Loop, this neighborhood caters to both hard work and hard play. It is an opportune area for making business connections by day and stopping by a happening restaurant for a cocktail by night.
South Loop
Live here if:
You want an exciting and artistic vibe while also living in the heart of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. This neighborhood houses many museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, so you’ll always find something to do here. This place provides a perfect setting if you prefer a lively, buzzing district to call home.
Lincoln Park
Live here if:
You want a quaint and friendly neighborhood that teems with locally sourced and sustainable food as well as shopping choices. Constantly hosting pop-up bars and art shows, Lincoln Park cultivates a sense of eclectic artistry, while also offering fun and unique experiences. Plus, wandering through the Lincoln Park Zoo, with its always free entry, is a great way to spend the afternoon any time of the year.
These popular neighborhoods only scratch the surface of what’s available in Chicago. It’s worth reading up on all of the different neighborhoods beforehand to see which fits you best.
Still not sure which neighborhood you should live in? Reach out to one of our local experts, and we can help point you in the right direction.
Determine What You Can Afford
Narrow down your search by calculating what you can afford. In order to work out your budget, check out our detailed guide.
If you want to live in a luxury building that lies outside of your price range, some well-planned strategies might make it work. One simple fix: find roommates. With local postings from other Chicagoans looking for the right fit as well, you could lock down that beautiful high-rise apartment while also making connections.
Insider Tip: Look for apartment deals. Many buildings offer 1, 2, or even 3 months of free rent to fill up vacant units.
Move in to Your New Place
Now that you know how to find an apartment in Chicago, it’s time for the fun part: moving in! We supply tons of tips and tricks to help you move into your new space and make it your own. Whether you want to make the most of your trendy, open-concept loft space, or decorate your studio apartment to maximize the space, we’ve got you covered. Apartment Therapy’s Instagram will feature your space in no time.
Get Started Today
AptAmigo is your one-stop-shop for all of your apartment hunting needs. With local insight, expert industry knowledge, and access to the best deals in Chicago, finding your dream apartment has never been easier. So, let us do the hard work while you kick back, relax, and unwind in The Windy City.
Read Next: Apartment Spotlight – Flora
* The original version of this article was first published on November 4, 2020.
