Which are the best luxury, amenity-packed apartment buildings in Chicago?

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Apartments for Rent in Chicago, IL

2,793 rentals available

The Flamingo
$1,103
5500 South Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637
(341) 244-6043
7 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, 24hr gym, Pool, Dog park + more
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6306 S Fairfield
$940
6306 South Fairfield Avenue, Chicago, IL 60629
(312) 345-5382
2 units available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Ceiling fan + more
Cost-effective Charm
Renovated gem with complete transit routes and conveniences.
6306 S Fairfield offers recently renovated apartments with modern amenities, including heat and laundry services. Residents enjoy easy connections thanks to multiple CTA lines and bus routes nearby. The property's location is convenient for dining, shopping, and entertainment, delivering high value in a city setting.
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Oliver on LaSalle
$1,626
1140 North LaSalle Drive, Chicago, IL 60610
(773) 741-0972
5 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Stainless steel + more
Prime Location
Historic charm in bustling Chicago locale.
Oliver on LaSalle charms with its stunning red-brick architecture. Nestled in the vibrant Old Town/Gold Coast neighborhoods, it's a hub for everything exciting in Chicago. With beaches, lively nightlife, and key transit options within reach, the location is simply unmatched.
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5832 W North Ave
$1,225
5832 West North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
(312) 635-5843
2 units available
2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Clubhouse, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
Community Charm
Vibrant community with exceptional transit options.
Discover a community full of charm and convenience at 5832 W North Ave. Residents love the walkable access to delicious restaurants, lively parks, and efficient public transportation. Enjoy the warmth of friendly neighbors and vibrant annual events that make this neighborhood feel like home.
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6122-24 N Milwaukee Ave 6124-1
Studio • 1 Bath • 300 sqft
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5845 South Princeton Avenue - Bedroom 0 Bed
Studio • 1 Bath
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7104 S Crandon Ave. 7
Studio • 1 Bath • 360 sqft
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7645 S Cottage Grove Avenue 6
Studio • 1 Bath • 600 sqft
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Westhaven Park Phase II A 14-0134
2 Beds • 1 Bath • 990 sqft
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7800 S Jeffery Blvd
$1,045
7800 South Jeffery Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60649
(312) 626-6643
3 units available
1 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Commuter's Haven
Perfect home with excellent transit and cost-saving features.
Discover this charming property in the heart of South Shore, Chicago. Located steps from local favorites like McDonald's and Manny's Grocery, daily errands are a breeze. The apartments boast hardwood floors, while tenants enjoy cost-saving perks like free heat and high-speed internet. Plus, with convenient access to public transport, commuting is a cinch!
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8241 S Ellis
$955
8241 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619
(312) 626-5056
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Some paid utils, and Range
Pet Haven
Charming Chatham Locale with Abundant Public Transit Options
Experience the best of Chatham at 8241 S Ellis. Cats and dogs are welcome, making this a perfect pet haven. Residents love the convenient access to public transport, ensuring a seamless commute. Enjoy nearby local favorites like Dat Donut and Avalon Park.
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7941 S Marquette
$860
7941 South Marquette Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617
(312) 626-6473
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Elevator, and Some paid utils
Value Gem
Charming south side location with community engagement.
Nestled in the vibrant Far Southeast Side of Chicago, 7941 S Marquette excels in convenience and community spirit. Priced substantially below the metro average, it offers residents great value. With groceries, dining options, and transportation all within walking distance, this property ensures an urban experience without the hustle.
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Foundry
$2,632
1475 North Kingsbury Street, Chicago, IL 60642
(361) 317-7701
Rent Savings
36 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
Skyline Views
Unmatched skyline views and upscale amenities in Foundry.
Foundry offers luxurious living with stunning skyline views and high-end finishes, perfectly crafted to enhance your lifestyle. Residents appreciate the modern design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and stylish decor. Enjoy upscale amenities, such as a rooftop pool and a welcoming community atmosphere complete with attentive staff.
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Woodlawn Terrace
$1,125
4726 South Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615
(773) 974-6062
8 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Hyde Park
Charming Hyde Park retreat with vibrant community features.
Woodlawn Terrace in popular South Side offers a charming retreat with award-winning courtyard gardens. Residents are delighted by the property's tranquility, alongside the vibrant Hyde Park community offerings. Conveniently positioned, this location allows easy access to essential amenities, ensuring a smoothly integrated lifestyle.
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7201 S Calumet Ave
$1,360
7201 South Calumet Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619
(312) 626-0370
2 units available
2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Some paid utils, Range, and Oven
Elegant Comfort
Charming apartments close to parks and transport.
Located in Chicago’s Grand Crossing neighborhood, this property is a true gem. With elegant hardwood floors and spacious dining rooms, renters find it both stylish and practical. It's positioned within walking distance to Meyering Park, great for relaxing outdoor activities, and provides easy transit access through the CTA Red Line and key bus routes.
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Luxury apartments
Top units for an elevated lifestyle.
1019 N WOLCOTT Avenue 6 Bed
6 Beds • 8 Baths • 9740 sqft
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103 East Chestnut Street 103
4 Beds • 4.5 Baths
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103 West Chestnut Street 4 Bed
4 Beds • 4.5 Baths • 6000 sqft
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2205 W Huron Street 6 Bed
6 Beds • 6 Baths • 4200 sqft
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44 E Cedar Street 5 Bed
5 Beds • 5 Baths
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7801 S Yates South Shore Apartments
$1,035
7801 South Yates Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60649
(312) 847-3531
3 units available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Fireplace + more
Prime Location
Newly Rehabbed Gem in Fantastic Locale
Discover the charm of Pangea 7801 S Yates with its perfectly updated units and coveted South Shore location. Enjoy pet-friendly living with both cats and dogs welcome in this quiet, respectful community. Convenient transportation access and nearby amenities make this a desirable choice for a dynamic lifestyle.
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2045 E 75th St
$885
2045 East 75th Street, Chicago, IL 60649
(312) 626-0844
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Parking, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Chic apartments near convenient transport and vibrant amenities.
Nestled in Chicago's lively South Shore, 2045 E 75th St offers a chic living experience. Residents appreciate the elegant hardwood floors and functional eat-in kitchens. With Walgreen's, Rosenblum Park, and the ME Metra Electric nearby, convenience is unparalleled.
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8238 S Ellis Ave
$915
8238 South Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL 60619
(312) 818-1171
3 units available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Some paid utils, Bathtub, Carpet + more
Stylish Living
Convenient location with modern amenities.
Nestled in the charming Chatham area, 8238 S Ellis Ave offers a modern living experience with excellent access to public transportation. Residents enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry and complimentary internet. High-end finishes like hardwood floors create a stylish and comfortable environment.
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447 N Austin
$1,555
447 North Austin Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60644
(312) 815-2097
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Range, and Oven
Convenient Location
Walker's Paradise Near Public Transport
Nestled in the vibrant West Side of Chicago, 447 N Austin offers exceptional walkability and convenience. Residents enjoy the short stroll to the Austin-Green Line stop, making commutes effortless. The proximity to local amenities like Unity Foods and West Suburban Health Care adds to the conveniences of this well-located property.
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5125 W Madison St
$1,080
5125 West Madison Street, Chicago, IL 60644
(312) 319-8078
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Some paid utils, and Bathtub
Transit Access
Accessible haven with top-notch public transit options.
Experience modern living in this freshly renovated property with fantastic access to public transportation, including the CTA Blue & Green Line. Residents love the welcoming community atmosphere, with responsive management and well-maintained spaces. Both dogs and cats are warmly welcomed here!
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5500 W Van Buren St
$1,230
5500 West Van Buren Street, Chicago, IL 60644
(312) 445-2015
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Some paid utils, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
Ideal Location
Convenient Chicago Living with Walkable Amenities
Discover a delightful living experience at 5500 W. Van Buren St., situated in Chicago's vibrant West Side. Residents revel in the neighborhood's walkability, enhanced by clean, well-lit sidewalks. Enjoy quick access to public transportation, making commuting a breeze, and savor the convenience of nearby parks, schools, and stores.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in Chicago is $2,261+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $2,866+. Rent rates updated 4 days ago

Studio: $1,893+Trending up
1 Bed: $2,261+Trending up
2 Beds: $2,866+Trending up
3+ Beds: $3,437+Trending up

* Averages are based on the rental prices of properties listed on Apartment List that don’t include fees

Top neighborhoods in Chicago

Far North Side
View 564 listings
What it’s like to live in Far North Side
International diversity thrives across Chicago's Far North Side, where neighborhoods like Rogers Park and West Ridge showcase global influences through authentic restaurants, markets, and community institutions. Rental options include courtyard buildings, vintage walk-ups, and divided houses with more space than similarly priced properties closer to downtown. While the area offers excellent access to both Lake Michigan beaches and multiple transit options, commutes to Loop employment can take 45+ minutes despite good transportation connections. Particularly appealing to budget-conscious renters who value authentic diversity beyond marketing-created "international" atmospheres and appreciate genuine neighborhood character without corresponding rental premiums despite the distance from downtown attractions.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Professionals
Young Renters
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Mixed-Use
Peaceful
Mixed-Use & Commercial
View 564 listings
Downtown Chicago
View 179 listings
What it’s like to live in Downtown Chicago
Skyline energy pulses through The Loop's canyon-like streets. Renters in converted office towers enjoy rooftop pools but face 2AM garbage truck noise. Winter wind tunnels off Lake Michigan test cold tolerance.
Great for
Young Professionals
Tech Workers
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Commuters
Investors
Neighborhood vibe
Urban
Bustling
Walkable
View 179 listings
Lincoln Park
View 90 listings
What it’s like to live in Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park combines historic architecture with exceptional access to Chicago's namesake park and lakefront. The neighborhood features a mix of brownstones, greystones, and luxury high-rises creating varied rental options across multiple price points. While offering amenities including the free Lincoln Park Zoo, Diversey Harbor, and endless dining options, the popularity comes with premium rental rates and competitive application processes for the most desirable buildings.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Dog Owners
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Classic
Leafy
Lively
Family-friendly
View 90 listings

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Chicago Short-term Apartments (156)

Finding Apartments for Rent in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is a vibrant city filled with must-see attractions. From visiting Millennium Park's "Bean" sculpture to walking the scenic Lakefront Trail, there's no shortage of entertaining activities in the Windy City.

Whether you’re a first-time renter moving to one of Chicago’s many affordable neighborhoods or a long-time resident trading up to a downtown Chicago apartment with a lake view, search for your new home with Apartment List. With so many rentals in Chicago to choose from, you need a better apartment-hunting strategy than Googling “apartments for rent near me.”

Start by taking our quiz, and let our AI-powered algorithm find your dream Chicago apartment. The search function considers multiple factors to showcase the ideal apartments in Chicago, including neighborhood preferences and public transit access.

With just a few clicks, you’ll find the perfect apartment rentals in Chicago, Illinois.

FAQs answered by renters in Chicago, IL

Which are the best luxury, amenity-packed apartment buildings in Chicago?
Wolf Point West and East
Answered on Feb 22, 2025 by Ellyse H.
westmore apartment
Answered on Feb 20, 2025 by Mohammad H.

Chicago Rent Report: January 2026

Welcome to the Apartment List January 2026 Rent Report for Chicago, IL. Currently, the overall median rent in the city stands at $1,776, after falling 0.8% last month. Prices remain up 7.1% year-over-year. Read on to learn more about what’s been happening in the Chicago rental market and how it compares to trends throughout the broader Chicago metro area and the nation as a whole.

Apartments for Rent in Chicago

Chicago boasts world-class architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and a dynamic food scene. But for renters, the excitement can quickly turn into a whirlwind of questions: How much rent can I afford? Where should I live? What are the application requirements? Fear not, future Windy City residents! This guide equips you with the essential tips to conquer your Chicago apartment hunt.

Chicago really has no defined “rental season”. Apartments are available year-round, though if anything, there are more options and they tend to go quicker and rent higher in the spring and fall. During these seasons, you’re more likely to lose a good dwelling to another contender if you don’t act fast. Renting a place out in the middle of January may give you a price or time advantage, but moving a couch up to the fourth floor of a walk-up building when the back staircase is covered in ice may also cause you to think twice.

Chicago is an extremely large city, and it's common for people to live well outside of it and use the train system to commute. Some people live as far as the Eastern coast of Michigan, where you can find a quaint lake town connected to a train that will take you directly to the city in a matter of an hour or two. With that in mind, know that you may pay a premium to live close to downtown, so staying open to adjacent areas can expand your options.

The Chicago rental market can move swiftly. Respond to listings promptly and be prepared to act quickly if you find a place you love. Attending open houses allows you to assess the apartment and meet the landlord directly. Chicago landlords often require proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, and a credit check. Having all documentation readily available streamlines the application process. Some landlords may have additional requirements like a reference letter from previous landlords.

Still have questions about renting in Chicago? Read on to learn more about average rent prices, transportation, pet friendly living, and more.

-"Maybe we can show government how to operate better as a result of better architecture. Eventually, I think Chicago will be the most beautiful great city left in the world." (Frank Lloyd Wright)

Transportation in Chicago

The Chicago Transit Authority operates a huge network of trains and buses, with the result that many city-dwellers choose to ditch their car altogether and opt for the true urban lifestyle (a combination of walking and public transit). In fact, driving is generally one of the least desirable forms of transportation in Chicago. Finding an apartment with a designated parking spot can be difficult and pricey in many areas of the city (think an extra $150 - $200 a month for a spot in a parking garage or outdoor lot), and street parking is a cutthroat battle.

If you're wondering how to get around in Chicago, here's what locals do:

Chicago's "L" (elevated train) is an extensive and affordable way to get around. With eight lines reaching far corners of the city, it efficiently connects many neighborhoods.
Utilize the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) website or the Ventra app to plan your trip. These resources provide real-time train tracking and comprehensive route maps.
Purchase a reloadable Ventra Card which works for both trains and buses. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in stations with cash or credit cards. Fares are cheaper with a Ventra Card compared to single-ride tickets.
Residents living in suburbs bordering Chicago, like parts of Western Michigan, can leverage the Metra regional train system. Metra connects outlying areas to downtown Chicago, making it a viable option for longer commutes.
While the L-Train covers a large area, buses provide access to nearly every corner of Chicago. This is especially useful for reaching specific destinations not directly served by the L.
L-Train and bus service frequency reduces at night. Plan your evenings accordingly, especially if you rely solely on public transportation.
Biking is another really popular form of transportation in Chicago, and you'll find no shortage of bike stations, rentals, and parking.

By understanding the L-Train, buses, and their connectivity with Metra, renters in Chicago, even those residing in surrounding areas, can navigate the city efficiently and affordably.

Pet-Friendly Apartment Hunting in Chicago

Finding a pet-friendly apartment in Chicago is certainly possible, though pet policies can vary significantly based on your landlord.

Breed specific legislation: Chicago's pit bull ban was repealed in 2016, though you may still find breed-specific restrictions in many apartment complexes.
Weight restrictions: While dogs are popular even in the busiest parts of the city, be aware that many buildings (especially high-rises) have weight limits for pets, often stricter than other locations.
Building size and amenities: Larger buildings and those with dedicated pet amenities like dog runs are more likely to be pet-friendly.

The good news? Chicago offers a surprising number of pet-friendly options. Here are some resources. Furthermore, major rental listing websites like Apartment List allow filtering by pet-friendliness. Simply select “Dog-Friendly” or “Cat-Friendly” in your preferences when you start your search.

Renting an Apartment in Chicago

Quality and Style: As previously stated, Chicago has every type of dwelling imaginable, though different neighborhoods and price ranges will yield different results. Multi-unit high-rise buildings usually have amenities included, such as a concierge/doorman, a communal rooftop deck, a pool, or a fitness center. These types of buildings will also have more restrictions or fees for moving in and out. Older buildings with radiator heat will often have gas and heat included in the rent, which is a huge advantage in the winter months when heating prices can break $150 - $200 or more a month. Also, you’d be hard-pressed to find an apartment in the city of Chicago that requires you to pay your own water bill.

Common Logistics: A 12-month lease is standard, though occasionally a larger company will throw in financial perks for signing a longer lease. Short-term or month-to-month leases are hard to come by unless you’re subletting or renting from a private landlord. As far as security deposits go, the standard is equivalent to one month’s rent. More and more often, though, management companies are requiring a non-refundable move-in fee (usually between $150 and $300 per person) instead of a security deposit.

Your Renting Arsenal: Here is a list of common things that will be required for a rental application:

Photo ID for all applicants
It’s perfectly normal (especially with management companies) to require a $25 - $50 non-refundable credit/background check fee per applicant.
Expect to provide information on an application including (but not limited to) current employer information, financial information, previous landlord contact information, and personal or professional references.
Many larger management companies will require previous bank statements or pay stubs as proof of income.

Is Chicago Expensive to Rent In?

For the entire city of Chicago, median 2-Bedroom rent is around $1,659 a month; that is much lower than New York, where the median 2-bedroom rent rate is around $2,234. Using a standard rule of budgeting that says rent should not be more than 30% of your income, we would recommend making at least $60,000 to cover a 2-Bedroom in Chicago.

Why Are Chicago Apartments So Expensive?

While not as expensive as some major cities, it's rental prices are higher than many other parts of the U.S. because Chicago is a bustling city with good job opportunities, great public transportation, and fantastic amenities. Furthermore, because commuting is possible and popular, you will pay a premium to live in a central location.

That being said, there are many affordable neighborhoods in Chicago, such as the Pilsen Historic District, where you can snag a one-bedroom for an average of $1,150 while still be very close to the center of the city.

Chicago Neighborhoods

Within the city of Chicago, there are over 200 unique neighborhoods that are fluid and socially constructed, each with their own quirks and day-to-day life. On a much larger (and more general) scale, the city can be broken up into four massive sections. Consider this a “jumping off” point in finding your ‘hood. Once you decide which side of the city is best for you, look into doing some research on that area’s neighborhoods to find the best fit. A semi-official map of Chicago’s neighborhoods can be found here.

The Loop

The central hub of Chicago, dubbed “the loop” due to the circular path that the elevated trains take around it, is mainly considered a commercial area. It boasts the quintessential Chicago landmarks, including skyscrapers, museums, Grant and Millennium Parks, a theatre district, and a large shopping district. Housing in the loop tends to be sparser and located more toward the perimeter. This area is bustling during the day. Living spaces are compact high-rise condominium and apartment buildings. Generally, the further your living proximity from the loop, the lower cost, more spacious, and more “residential” your apartment will tend to be.

North Loop

Closer to the loop and Michigan Avenue’s “Magnificent Mile” shopping district. There are many town houses around these neighborhoods, too. As you continue north, rent drops a little and the streets become tree-lined, yet population rises considerably. The north side, as a whole, is the most densely populated section of the city, especially along the lakefront. This area has a lot of neighborhood amenities, parks, and nightlife. It boasts a pretty even number of two and three-flat buildings, vintage courtyard buildings, and high-rises of all different types, with pockets of single-family homes woven in.

South Side

The south side covers a much larger land area. Some parts of the south side are quaint, residential communities, and some are rather old and historic.The neighborhoods here have more single-family homes and smaller buildings. Millions of Chicagoans still call it home.

West Side

Just west of the loop has historically been an industrial zone; the famous Chicago Union Stockyards were once located here. Closer to downtown, you’ll find loft-style condominiums and old warehouses converted into restaurants and galleries, as well as one of the largest medical districts in the United States. Further out, more stand-alone houses, town homes and bungalows appear.

Apartments for Rent in Chicago, IL

The Flamingo

6306 S Fairfield

Oliver on LaSalle

5832 W North Ave

7800 S Jeffery Blvd

8241 S Ellis

7941 S Marquette

Foundry

Woodlawn Terrace

7201 S Calumet Ave

7801 S Yates South Shore Apartments

2045 E 75th St

8238 S Ellis Ave

447 N Austin

5125 W Madison St

5500 W Van Buren St

Average rent in Chicago, Illinois

Top neighborhoods in Chicago

Far North Side

What it’s like to live in Far North Side

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

Downtown Chicago

What it’s like to live in Downtown Chicago

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

Lincoln Park

What it’s like to live in Lincoln Park

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

More Rental Options

Finding Apartments for Rent in Chicago, Illinois

FAQs answered by renters in Chicago, IL

Which are the best luxury, amenity-packed apartment buildings in Chicago?

Chicago, IL Rental Market Trends

Chicago Rent Report: January 2026

Chicago Renter Confidence Survey

Living in Chicago, IL

Chicago Apartment Renter's Guide

Chicago Apartment Renter's Guide