Apartments in Chicago
Chicago is the hub of various cultural, architectural and financial activities. It is the third largest city of the nation and has a vibrant and friendly neighborhood which welcomes one and all. Chicago has a variety of cultures and lifestyles which make it an excellent choice to live in. The quality of life in Chicago is fabulous. Chicago is famous for its spectacular sights, topping the list is Lake Michigan, Sears tower, Shedd aquarium, Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park etc. The standard of education is also high.
The cost of living in Chicago is on the higher side but the numerous housing options make up for it. The average rentals for apartments in Chicago go for about $1,000 a month and the utilities come to about $86. The apartments are released for time periods from 12 to 24 months. But maybe you would prefer to buy your own home taking a home loan.
Best residential areas in Chicago
Chicago has three divisions in context of residential neighbourhoods. They are divided along the Chicago River into North, South and West sides.
- North side - The best residential spots of the windy city are situated here. They have the best apartments and houses but the cost is on the higher side. The posh locality around Magnificent Mile offers a variety of options with a spectacular view of downtown Chicago and also Lake Michigan. The rent can vary. $1000 to $1200 for studio, $1050 to $1500 for single bedroom and $1800 to $2400 for double bedroom apartments. Rests of the apartments are located around Lincoln Park. Some of them are vintage buildings renovated into apartments which give the feel of the bygone era. They are comfortable and reflect an elegant lifestyle. Most of them are located at great proximity to the best in shopping, entertainment, and nightlife and dining. All are available in the studio and one bedroom category with cost ranging from $750 to $850 and $900 to $1000 respectively.
- South Side - This area provides the largest options available for apartments and houses in Chicago. They are mainly concentrated around the loop and offer spacious town home living. Most of them are built on beautiful landscaped grounds providing the city scape views and with a friendly community to add to the fun .There is convenient access to city transport and all up to date facilities. They offer retail and shopping within the building. The rent varies from $600 to $700 for studio, $700 to $850 for one bedroom, $950 to $1100 for two bedrooms and $1300 to $1600 for three bedrooms.
- West side - This is the place to try out for an economical solution. The West side is emerging as the new urban locality. They are located just some minutes away from greektown, Westhaven Park, rush and St.Luke. The panoramic views add up to the economical rent with sweeping city views. They offer brand new renovated apartments connected to some of the city's best ethnic restaurants and boutiques. The rents are quite economical varying from $650 to $700 for one bedroom apartments and $850 to $950 for two bedroom apartments.
Other options
There are various apartments located in the north and South County near the O'Hare Airport, woodfield mall etc which is the serene and quite residential areas. The local metro train helps in convenient transportation to downtown Chicago. They also provide proximity to institutions like Harper College, Illinois Institute of Art and Roosevelt College. The rentals start here from as low as $675.The advantages are the peaceful countryside, pet friendly communities and beautiful landscape.
The places outside the city where people can try are Evanston, Oak Park and Schaumburg.
Formalities for renting
Some of the apartments cut off the application fee if the apartment is leased within one or two days of viewing. Sometimes even the initial month rent is relaxed. For economical purposes, if the tenant finds it hard to pay the whole rent, he can always have a room mate to share the same. Chicago has a number of apartments and it is not easy to choose. The leasing offices mainly work on weekdays and some times an appointment has to be fixed.
Many sites provide information about Chicago apartments, especially those for rent to students and youth. There is much confusion that arises during the talks for rent and lease. Metropolitan Tenants Organization clears many of them.
If searched properly, the apartments in Chicago offer satisfaction worth the money paid.