Your Guide to Moving to Chicago
Table of Contents
Welcome to Chicago, where deep-dish pizza is a way of life, and the skyline is as iconic as the Cubs vs. Sox rivalry. Whether you’re relocating for work, you’re a recent graduate swapping your college town for the big city, or someone making a triumphant return to Chicago post-pandemic, this guide is your ticket to mastering the art of the move.
Chicago Newcomers, By the Numbers
Earlier this year, our team at Hotspot Apartment Rentals analyzed which of Chicago’s neighborhoods are best for recent college graduates. This got us curious about our customers and what percentage make the move to Chicago from out of town. So, we got to work, surveying almost 600 of our customers.
The result? We learned that 38.8% of renters were relocating to Chicago, meaning they didn’t live in the Chicagoland area at the time of their move. As far as a reason for moving, 72% of our relocating customers listed a job change or transfer as the #1 reason. While we were crunching numbers, we also pulled together data on newcomers’ favorite neighborhoods, floorplans, and apartment buildings.
A lot of what we learned was interesting, and even surprised us! Check out the results and see if you’re surprised too. We plan on updating the info at the end of the year to see if anything has changed!
Before Your Move, Let’s Get to Know Chicago
You’ve made the brilliant decision to move to Chicago! Congratulations! You’re about to embark on an adventure in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
A Trademark Culture and Vibe
Anthony Bourdain once said, “You wake up in Chicago, pull back the curtain and you KNOW where you are. You could be nowhere else. You are in a big, brash, muscular, broad-shouldered motherf*ckin’ city.”
And that’s Chicago! A metropolis that’s big-hearted and unyielding. Here, we value authenticity, a sense of humor and kindly ask you to leave pretentiousness at the state line. If you’ve never lived in the Midwest before, you’re in for a treat called friendliness. Sure, not everyone is sunshine and roses, but compared to the other top five U.S. cities, Chicagoans are downright pleasant.
Things to Do
If you’re bored in Chicago, sorry, but you’re doing something wrong! Whether you’re into sports leagues, book clubs, dance classes, or cooking workshops, you’ll find your niche. For the more adventurous, there are improv classes, burlesque shows, trapeze lessons, and even sailing courses.
Consider yourself a foodie? Chicago is a culinary paradise. On any given night, you can dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, grab a Chicago-style dog from a corner vendor or anything in-between.
If you’d rather be outside than in, Chicago’s parks and green spaces are second to none. The city is built on the Lake Michigan shoreline, gifting residents a stunning stretch of public parks and beaches that offer picture-perfect views and a sandy escape within the city. With more than 600 parks in Chicago’s city limits, and the best-of-the-best right downtown, finding a spot to get out and play is easy!
Ease of Living
Getting around, and out of Chicago, is a breeze. Both O’Hare and Midway airports are less than an hour’s train ride from downtown, making jetting away as easy as it gets. Moving to Chicago with a car? The public transit system is so good, you might not need it!
If you’re new to Chicago and nervous about navigating a new city, don’t worry! The street layout is intuitive, thanks to its grid system, making navigating Chicago’s streets on foot, bike, or by car so simple, that you’ll feel like a local in no time.
The Cost of Living
Yes, living in Chicago comes with a price tag, but it’s a steal compared to other major U.S. cities like New York or San Francisco. Chicago offers a high quality of life and a plethora of cultural experiences at a relatively affordable cost. Many people moving to the Chicago area from cities like L.A., New York, and London are pleasantly surprised by how attainable living in Chicago can be.
The Not-So-Great Stuff
Every rose has its thorn, and Chicago is no exception. The winters can be harsh, but with a legit winter coat, you’ll be fine. In fact, many locals thrive in the winter, seeing it as a yearly reset.
Taxes in Chicago are high and sometimes seem absurd (amusement tax, anyone?), and parking can be expensive. Owning a car here is a costly affair, and parking in Chicago is notoriously a pain, but with such a great public transit system, you can ditch your car.
The hardest part about moving to Chicago? Choosing your team. Yup, we take baseball seriously here, and choosing between the North Side and South Side is a rite of passage. So, what’s it going to be, newbie? Cubs or White Sox?
A Moving to Chicago Must: Work With a Leasing Agent
But before you choose your baseball team, it’s time to create your “let’s move to Chicago” team. You’ve got your family, your friends, and maybe even a new team of coworkers offering their best Chicago tips. And then there’s the real MVP of your move to Chicago—your apartment leasing agent.
If you’ve never worked with a leasing agent, you’re in for a serious treat! Our team at Hotspot Apartment Rentals helps tons of people relocate to Chicago. We’re midway through summer, and we’ve played apartment matchmaker to 163 new Chicagoans, scoring them a perfect place to call home.
Here’s how we do it, in three simple steps:
- Together, we have a conversation. We get to know you and what you expect your day-to-day life will be like in Chicago.
- We get to work, playing matchmaker between you and the thousands of apartments in Chicago.
- We take you on tours and find your perfect place. And yes—we can do this virtually!
The best part is that our services are free to you. Yes, FREE!
The second best part is that we work freakishly fast. Need an apartment reserved in 24 hours? We got you!
First, Find the Best Chicago Neighborhood for You
Chicago is BIG—the third most populated city in the US. If you’re new here, step one is to figure out where you want to plant your roots. With more than 200 neighborhoods within the official 77 community areas, Chicago is a city made up of tiny cities—each with its own culture.
You’ll find neighborhoods that are as urban as it gets, where skyscrapers pierce the sky and the hustle and bustle never seem to stop. Then some neighborhoods are a small-town escape within the big city, with tree-lined streets and charming boutiques. Whether you want to live in a high-rise in the heart of the city or in a cozy neighborhood that hosts summer block parties, we’ll help you land in just the right spot.
What Neighborhoods Do People Move to?
Feeling overwhelmed? Let us help! As Chicago’s best leasing agents, our #1 job is to match you with the perfect apartment, and that all starts with the right location. Whether you’ve never set foot in the city, or are moving back to Chicago after some time away, we promise to find you a neighborhood that feels like “you”!
Which neighborhoods are people most likely to relocate to? It’s a diverse group:
#1: The West Loop
This neighborhood’s vibe and culture are off the charts. It’s home to some of the best luxury apartments in Chicago, the trendiest restaurants, awesome bars, and a surprising amount of urban green space. Located just west of the heart of downtown, the West Loop’s central location means you can commute anywhere in the city in no time flat. Renters love West Loop because:
- Of its cool, industrial-chic aesthetic
- Live music venues abound!
- It’s home to Restaurant Row, plus tons of Chicago’s other top restaurants
- There are great dog parks and green spaces in the neighborhood
- You’re just minutes away from the heart of downtown
- The neighborhood hosts events, farmers markets, and festivals
#2: River North
River North is the neighborhood for those who want to be in the thick of it all. Centrally located downtown, it’s completely walkable. A bustling neighborhood where the fun never stops, and you’ll always have something to do when you rent an apartment in River North. Renters love River North because:
- Its location can’t be beat!
- It has diverse restaurants, ranging from upscale dining to hole-in-the-wall joints
- Shopping on Michigan Avenue is at your doorstep
- It’s nestled along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan
- High-rise to boutique apartments, it has it all!
#3: The South Loop
For those who crave lakeside living with a downtown twist, the South Loop is the perfect spot. It’s quietly downtown, offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the city’s busyness. The area’s blend of high-rise living and quieter side streets offers the best of both worlds, making it a favorite for those who want to be close to the action without being overwhelmed by it. Renters love South Loop because:
- You get sunrise views of Lake Michigan
- There are abundant parks, including Grant Park, Millennium Park, and the Museum Campus
- Highway access and public transit are convenient, making commuting easy
- Many of the high-rise apartments have incredible views!
- A mix of historic buildings and modern developments add unique character to the neighborhood
Next, Let’s Find Your New Apartment
Once we narrow down the area you’d like to live in, it’s time to find your apartment.
From cozy studios to sprawling penthouses, there’s something for everyone. But what are the most popular choices for newcomers to the city? Let’s break it down:
34% of newcomers rent a 1-bedroom unit. A classic choice, it’s perfect for those who want a bit of separation between their living and sleeping areas. It typically includes a separate bedroom, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. It’s ideal for singles or couples who enjoy more privacy and space.
Junior One Bedroom Apartment
25% rent a Junior 1-bedroom. For those who want just a little more than a studio but not quite a full 1 bedroom, the Junior 1 Bedroom–also known as a “convertible” layout–is a popular pick. These units usually feature a semi-enclosed sleeping area and a bit more living space than studios, making them perfect for renters who want extra space without breaking the bank.
Need more room to stretch out? 25% of renters opt for a 2-bedroom apartment. These units offer ample space, with two separate bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and often two bathrooms. They are fantastic for work-from-home renters who need a home office, roommates who want their own space, or small families looking for extra room.
The ultimate in open-concept living, 13% choose a studio apartment. A combined living room, bedroom, and kitchen in one space, with a separate bathroom, a studio is great for renters on a budget or workaholics who just need a place to crash.
Do you have a bigger crew? 3% move into a 3-bedroom. These units are perfect for families, groups of roommates, or anyone who wants a home office and a guest room. With three separate bedrooms, a spacious living area, a kitchen, and usually multiple bathrooms, there’s plenty of space to live comfortably.
The Most Popular Apartment Buildings in Chicago
Honestly, the popularity of an apartment building doesn’t matter if it’s not the right apartment for YOU. But, of course, there are some favorites. These are the five apartment buildings that our customers say “yes!” to over and over again:
- Neighborhood: West Loop
- Opened in 2024
- Beautiful industrial chic interiors
- Cat and dog-friendly, complete with a dog wash
- Incredible co-working space
- Gorgeous indoor and outdoor lounge spaces
- Fitness center
Arrive Michigan Avenue Apartments
- Neighborhood: South Loop
- Opened in 2019
- Indoor spa with jacuzzi, sauna and steam room
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Fitness center with stunning views of Lake Michigan
- Co-working space with abundant natural light
- Pet-friendly
- Neighborhood: West Loop
- Opened in 2023
- Outdoor pool and lounge
- Large co-working area with both individual and group settings
- Dog park with agility course (yes, very dog-friendly!)
- Fitness center
- Neighborhood: West Loop
- Opened in 2004
- Recently renovated
- Some of the most affordable luxury apartments in West Loop
- Rooftop sundeck with awesome city and sunset views
- Close to the Metra, L and walkable to the Loop
Presidential Towers Apartments
- Neighborhood: West Loop
- Opened in 1986; Remodeled in 2014.
- Four separate towers hold 2,346 apartment units
- Attached to Fitness Formula Health Club, a 52,000 square-foot facility that offers discounted membership to PT residents
- Fewer flashy amenities, but affordable rent!
- Close to the Metra, L and walkable to the Loop
4 Tips for Getting Ready to Make the Move to Chicago
By now we hope you’re feeling not only more prepared but more excited about your move! Here are some final tips to help with your change of scenery.
#1: Arm Yourself With Helpful Apps
Ventra App: Digitally purchase and manage your public transit fares.
CityMapper: Track the arrival times of Chicago’s buses and trains.
Uber or Lyft: Quick and easy ridesharing options for getting around the city.
Zipcar: Convenient car rental service for when you need a car for a few hours or a day.
ParkChicago: The easiest way to pay for street parking.
SpotHero: Find and reserve parking spots in parking garages and lots.
Divvy: Chicago’s bike-sharing program with docking stations throughout the city.
Google Maps: The essential map app, especially for walking directions.
Grubhub and DoorDash: Who doesn’t love food delivery?!
Instacart: Grocery delivery from local stores like Mariano’s, Whole Foods, and Aldi.
Amazon Fresh: Fresh groceries delivered right to your door.
Nextdoor: Connect with your new neighbors!
#2: Study a Map of Chicago
This might feel old-school, but it’s the best way to get to know the city before you arrive! Pull up your new address on Google Maps. Zoom out to acquaint yourself with your apartment’s location compared to key points in the city like:
- Lake Michigan
- The Chicago Riverwalk
- The Loop
- Wrigley Field
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- The Field Museum
- Navy Pier
Next, zoom in and get to know the streets around your apartment building. Remember, Chicago’s streets were built using the genius grid system, so learning your way around will be easy!
#3: Check Out The Best Sources for Furniture in Chicago
When you’re ready to furnish your apartment, these are the best spots to hit up:
- Facebook Marketplace: A gold mine of everything from furniture to house plants.
- IKEA: There are two IKEAs in the Chicagoland area; the closest one to downtown is in Schaumburg.
- Brown Elephant Resale Shops: Thrift is in! Proceeds from the Brown Elephant’s three locations benefit the LGBTQ+ community and HIV/AIDS services.
- Wayfair: Skip those pesky delivery fees and head to Wayfair’s new Chicago store in Wilmette.
- West Elm, Crate & Barrel and CB2: All located near North and Clybourn.
#4: Think About Your Wardrobe
Remember, Chicago has all four seasons. From cold and windy to hot and humid; snow to rain to sleet, you’ll want to be ready for all of it. Build your closet as you go, but come with these essentials:
- Winter coat
- Rain jacket
- Sneakers (you’ll be putting steps on them!)
- Winter boots
- Hat and mittens or gloves
See You in Chicago!
So, do you feel ready for your big move to Chicago? Good! Chicago awaits with its charm, character, and countless opportunities. You’ve got a handle on the best neighborhoods, the amazing things to do, the types of luxury apartments, and the unique lifestyle this city offers. You’re practically a Chi-town expert now.
Remember, when it comes to moving to the Chicago area, your leasing agent is your best friend. Seriously, they’re like a life-saving floatie in the deep end of apartment hunting. Whether you’re looking for that perfect one-bedroom in Old Town or a spacious two-bedroom in Lakeshore East, our team at Hotspot Apartment Rentals has you covered.
Reach out to our team and get an expert on your side. We promise we’re not just here to show you apartments—we’re here to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget. Plus, we’re pretty fun to work with, if we do say so ourselves.
Welcome to your new adventure! We can’t wait to help you find your perfect spot in this incredible city. See you soon, future Chicagoan!
