Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers and tree-lined waterfront provide a backdrop for a multicultural city known for deep-dish pizza, world-class museums and a thriving music scene – which all make the Windy City an attractive destination for new residents.
Whether you root, root, root for the Cubbies or pull for the White Sox, we’re here to help you find your perfect neighborhood to call home.
We combed through Google data using generic keyword searches and combined those results with the most searched Chicago neighborhoods on ApartmentGuide.com to determine the five most popular Chicago neighborhoods with renters.
Most Popular Chicago Neighborhoods
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Here is a quick overview of each neighborhood and what you’d expect to pay for rent in each area.
1. Lincoln Park
This diverse arts and entertainment district is known for great food, bars, theater and live music. Stroll down Lincoln Avenue to get your nightly fill of local clubs and hotspots catering to young college students. The bustling neighborhood is known more for its single-family homes, however you can still find inexpensive rentals in the neighborhood for less than the city’s average prices.
| Property Size | Lincoln Park Average | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,262 | $1,443 |
| 1 BR | $1,707 | $1,816 |
| 2 BR | $2,419 | $2,520 |
2. Hyde Park
Hyde Park began as a retreat for Chicago’s wealthiest families. Today, it’s known as the cultural hub of Chicago and one of the city’s most racially diverse neighborhoods. Hyde Park is home to The Museum of Science and Industry, the University of Chicago and the neighborhood’s most famous resident: former President Barack Obama.
The area is also popular with students and professionals for the culture and education that comes from the major university.
| Property Size | Hyde Park Average | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,160 | $1,443 |
| 1 BR | $1,561 | $1,816 |
| 2 BR | $1,842 | $2,520 |
3. Downtown
Downtown Chicago is split into several mini-regions, including the famed Magnificent Mile, River North and South Loop. Each possesses its own unique culture and vibrancy with no shortage of things to see and do.
Besides hosting award-winning restaurants and 900 plus boutiques and shops, this neighborhood boasts a vibrant art and culture scene that attracts young professionals who want a short work commute. However, this convenience comes with a price.
| Property Size | Downtown Average | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,796 | $1,443 |
| 1 BR | $2,492 | $1,816 |
| 2 BR | $3,985 | $2,520 |
4. Lakeview
Lakeview is considered to be one of Chicago’s most lively neighborhoods.
Baseball fans can enjoy a Chicago Cubs game in Wrigleyville, while locals and visitors can explore its booming commercial district filled with vintage shops, boutiques, high-end restaurants and a vibrant bar and music scene.
Families, post-college grads and young couples can be seen soaking in the views, enjoying a picnic or watching runners along the Chicago Marathon route.
| Property Size | Lakeview Average | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,220 | $1,443 |
| 1 BR | $1,638 | $1,816 |
| 2 BR | $2,343 | $2,520 |
5. West Loop
Over the last two decades, the West Loop has transitioned from industrial factories and warehouses to one of Chicago’s fastest-growing and expensive neighborhoods.
The West Loop still possesses an industrial feel but is now known for its “Restaurant Row,” an expanisve and diverse group of restaurants and bars along Randolph Street near Fulton Market. Upscale boutiques and luxury lofts are also sprinkled in between art galleries and museums.
Home to Google and McDonald’s world headquarters, West Loop’s recent popularity have caused rents to increase dramatically in the last decade.
| Property Size | West Loop Average | Chicago Average |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,652 | $1,443 |
| 1 BR | $1,996 | $1,816 |
| 2 BR | $2,609 | $2,520 |
The rent information included in this article is based on current multifamily rental property inventory on ApartmentGuide.com and is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.