Student Housing in Chicago

Chicago is the most populated city in Illinois and the third most populated in the US after New York and Los Angeles. Finance, culture, business, industry, education, technology, telecommunications, and transportation are all centred in Chicago. Chicago's economy is varied; no one sector accounts for more than 14% of total employment.

The Universities in Chicago are as famous as the pizzas one gets here. It has a rich history and a diverse population, making it a fun and intriguing vacation spot for students. Chicago is home to several of the best colleges in the nation, including Northwestern University and the University of Chicago. It is recognised for its great food, including deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. It is home to various professional sports teams, including the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Blackhawks, and Bears.

Why study in Chicago?

The University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and DePaul University are just a few of the top colleges in the country that have campuses in Chicago. These colleges provide top-notch learning and research opportunities in a variety of disciplines. Every student in Chicago would receive an experience of cultural diversity, as there is a mix of people coming from various countries and ethnicities. Chicago is home to numerous significant businesses and industries, offering graduates opportunities for employment. There are several internship and employment options for students in the city's major industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, and more. And finally, the quality of life in Chicago attracts students to study here.

There are multiple locations to book accommodation or student halls in Chicago. One would want to find a place that is close to the university and offers easy access to public transport, as well as 24/7 security for your peace of mind. The students don’t need to stress over bills as well, all bills are included in student accommodations. So here to make your life easy are few of the best locations one can stay in;

1. The Loop: The Willis Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Millennium Park are just a few of the city's well-known landmarks that may be found in The Loop, Chicago's central business district. For those who want to be close to the action, it is a terrific location.

2. Magnificent Mile: A popular area for student housing is Chicago. It provides easy access to a number of universities, cultural centres, and budget-friendly food options. It's understandable why so many college students prefer to live on the Magnificent Mile given its lively environment and handy placement in the centre of downtown Chicago.

3. Lakeview: This neighbourhood is home to several clubs, eateries, and shops, especially Wrigley Field which is a renowned baseball stadium in Chicago. This area is located in the Northern Side of the city.

Pricing

Chicago's rental market showcases a range of pricing options in its diverse neighborhoods. The Loop, located in downtown Chicago, is known for its high rental prices due to its proximity to major businesses and cultural attractions. Lincoln Park, on the other hand, boasts picturesque parks and tree-lined streets, attracting families and young professionals. Lakeview offers a lively nightlife scene and access to Lake Michigan, while Wicker Park is renowned for its trendy atmosphere, with a vibrant arts and music scene. Each neighborhood has its unique charm and appeal, making Chicago's rental market an exciting and diverse landscape to explore.

The Loop Rental Market

The Loop area in Chicago is renowned for its impressive selection of rental buildings, offering a diverse range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. One notable building is The Marquee at Block 37, which boasts luxurious apartments with stunning city views and top-notch amenities such as a fitness center and rooftop terrace. Prices for one-bedroom units in The Marquee start at $2,000 per month. Another popular option is The Buckingham, a historic building that has been transformed into modern apartments with stylish interiors and high-end finishes. Rent for a one-bedroom unit in The Buckingham typically starts around $1,800 per month. These rental buildings in the Loop provide residents with an exceptional urban living experience, surrounded by the vibrant energy and cultural attractions that make Chicago so unique.

Lincoln Park Rental Market

The Lincoln Park rental market in Chicago offers a wide array of options for those seeking a vibrant and desirable neighborhood to call home. One prominent building in the area is The Belden-Stratford, an iconic high-rise that combines historic charm with modern amenities. This landmark building offers spacious apartments with beautiful views of Lincoln Park and Lake Michigan. Prices for one-bedroom units in The Belden-Stratford typically start at $1,800 per month. Another noteworthy option in Lincoln Park is The Webster Square Apartments, which provide contemporary living spaces and a range of amenities such as a fitness center and rooftop pool. Rent for a one-bedroom unit in Webster Square Apartments starts around $2,000 per month. With its proximity to the park, lively dining and entertainment scenes, and easy access to downtown Chicago, the Lincoln Park rental market offers residents a coveted blend of convenience and charm.

Lakeview Rental Market

The Lakeview rental market in Chicago is highly sought-after, offering an exceptional living experience in a neighborhood known for its charm and vibrant atmosphere. One notable building in the area is The Belmont by Reside, which boasts modern apartments with elegant finishes and a range of convenient amenities. This newly constructed residence provides residents with access to a well-equipped fitness center, a beautiful rooftop terrace for relaxation, and the added convenience of on-site parking. With prices for one-bedroom units starting at $1,900 per month, The Belmont offers an enticing option for those seeking contemporary living in Lakeview.

Beyond the exceptional housing options, Lakeview itself is a neighborhood that has a lot to offer. Its proximity to Lake Michigan provides residents with beautiful views and easy access to outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, and leisurely walks along the lakefront. Lakeview is also known for its vibrant dining and entertainment scene, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. The neighborhood boasts a lively atmosphere, with numerous theaters, music venues, and comedy clubs that offer a rich cultural experience.

The cost of living for a student in Chicago may differ depending on their lifestyle choices, the neighbourhood they live in, and other variables. One should have a set budget before stepping into the city or be ready to over spend. There are several costs that a student incurs during his/her year of study away from home. These can be divided into two parts one being the fixed cost of accommodation and tuition fees which cannot be avoided. Second being the fluctuational cost, which depends on the standard of living of an individual.

Here is a basic division of cost of living for a student in Chicago;

1. Accommodation: As a student finding a cheap and a good deal on accommodation is the key. Most of the student accommodation has the bills and amenities included in the rent, so students do not need to stress over that. The average cost would vary on the type of room selected starting from US$1,981/month.

2. Food: The cost of food varies from where one purchases food from. An average meal in Chicago costs $10/ meal.

3. Transport:Students can travel the city affordably by using Chicago's enormous public transit system, which includes buses and trains. A single bus or train ride costs $2.50, while a monthly CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) pass is $105.

        4. Groceries: Chicago has about average pricing for its groceries. 

For students, Chicago's massive public transportation system is easy and reasonably priced. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) runs buses and trains all around the city and gives students a number of options, including:

1. Ventra Card: You can pay for CTA fares with the reloadable card. Students can purchase a Ventra Card for $5 and load money onto it online or at CTA vending machines. Ventra Card holders can benefit from reduced fares, including student pricing.

2. U-Pass: It is a programme that provides qualifying students at participating universities with transportation benefits. During the academic year, the U-Pass offers unlimited travel on CTA buses and trains and is paid for as part of tuition and fees. If a student is unsure of whether they qualify for the U-Pass program, they should check with their university.

3. Divvy Bikes: This programme lets users hire bicycles from racks located all around the city. A subsidised annual membership that allows for unlimited rides of 45 minutes costs $75 for students.

4. Zipcar: Zipcar is a car-sharing service that lets users borrow vehicles for an hour or a whole day. For errands, grocery shopping, and weekend excursions, students can join up for a cheap membership and use Zipcars that are situated on or close to their campus.

Here are some interesting facts about Chicago city:

1. The second-largest public transit system in the country is run by the CTA. The CTA offers over 450 million bus and rail journeys annually on average.

2. Chicago has the highest railroad serving in the US than any other city, which is the reason why it is called the United States Railroad Capital.

3. Reversing the flow of the Chicago River so that it empties into the Mississippi River rather than Lake Michigan was a significant and highly inventive engineering feat that Chicago successfully completed in 1900. In honour of St. Patrick's Day, the Chicago River is painted green every year.

4. The Chicago Cultural Center was established in 1897 as the city's first public library and went on to establish itself as the country's first municipally funded free cultural institution. The Center is the location of the biggest Tiffany stained glass dome in the world.

Chicago provides a wide range of fun things to do for students, including cultural encounters, adventure sports, and culinary delights. Students can go around the city and locate events that suit their interests and budgets. Here is a list of exciting things to do in Chicago;

1. Visit the museums: The Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry are just a few of Chicago's top attractions. Several museums provide student discounts or free entry on specific days.

2. Explore the areas: There are many interesting neighbourhoods in Chicago to discover, each with its own distinct personality and attractions. The West Loop, Wicker Park, and Lincoln Park are some popular areas.

3. Attend athletic events: The Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Blackhawks are just a few of the professional sports clubs that call Chicago home. Tickets for several teams are discounted for students.

4. Relish the food: Chicago is renowned for its tasty and diverse cuisine. Students can sample well-known foods like Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and deep-dish pizza. There are also lots of inexpensive restaurants that welcome college students.

5. Attend festivals and events: The Chicago Jazz Festival, Lollapalooza, and the  Chicago Air and Water Show are just a few of the many festivals and events held in Chicago every year. Student discounts are available for several events' tickets.

1. Jewel-Osco: This well-known supermarket business has numerous outlets all across the city. Fresh vegetables, meat, dairy, and bakery items are just a few of the many products that Jewel-Osco sells.

2. Whole Foods Market: Whole Foods Market is a chain of natural and organic food stores. In Chicago, there are numerous Whole Foods stores, one of which is in the well-known Lincoln Park neighbourhood.

3. Mariano's: A large variety of fresh fruit, meat, seafood and bakery goods are available at Mariano's, a grocery store company. There are numerous outlets in the city, one of which is in the hip West Loop district.

4. Trader Joe's: It is a chain of grocery stores that sells a wide range of goods, including organic and natural foods, as well as items from other countries and specialty items.

5. Aldi: Aldi is a chain of bargain supermarkets that provides reasonable costs for a range of goods, including dairy, meat and fresh produce. The city is home to multiple Aldi stores.

There is something for everyone, from top-notch museums and cultural sites to delectable cuisine and exciting neighbourhoods. We'll highlight some of the greatest student hangouts in Chicago in this guide, from well-known spots to undiscovered treasures, so you can make the most of your stay there.

1. Pilsen: Pilsen, which was established by Czech immigrants, is a fantastic location for students. The Mexican-American student community enjoys this beautiful and energetic neighbourhood. It has excellent clothing boutiques, affordable coffee shops, museums, and tasty food. Music enthusiasts should visit the well-known Thalia Hall.

2. Lincoln Park: The park with the same name, Lincoln Park, is situated beside a lake. The park is recognized as a favourite spot by students due to its beautiful landscaping and tree-lined streets. Students get access to the History Museum, the Nature Museum, and the Free Zoo at Lincoln Park. A prestigious shopping centre and a history of live music resides here.

3. 1407 on Michigan: In Illinois, 1407 Michigan Avenue is situated on the southern end. The residential complex is renowned for its parks, museums, dining options, and educational opportunities. Adler, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum are a few of the well-known locations nearby. Roosevelt University, Columbia College, and East-West University are a few of the local universities.

Here's a brief overview of each of the four major universities in Chicago;

1. University of Chicago: The University of Chicago, which is frequently rated as one of the best universities in the world, is one of the most well-known institutions. The school offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programmes in subjects like business, law, and medicine, with a strong emphasis on research. The University of Chicago offers some of the greatest courses in economics, computer science, and political science. Although the university's undergraduate tuition for the 2022–2023 academic year is set at $61,800, it is still fairly expensive.

2. Northwestern University: Another prestigious university in the Chicago area is Northwestern University. Among other things, the university has a reputation for excellence in the performing arts, engineering, and journalism. Theater, computer engineering, and journalism are some of Northwestern's top classes. There are many student organisations and events on campus, which contribute to Northwestern's dynamic and active student life. Although the university's undergraduate tuition is set at $59,375 for the 2022–2023 academic year, it is nonetheless relatively expensive.

3. DePaul University: In the centre of Chicago, there is a private institution called DePaul institution. Among other things, the university is renowned for its effectivebusiness, law, and communication programmes. Computer science, communication, and accounting are among DePaul's top courses. There are numerous clubs and organisations at DePaul that cater to a variety of interests and identities, making student life there diverse and inclusive. In comparison to other universities in the region, DePaul's undergraduate tuition, which is set at $42,890 for the 2022–2023 academic year, is likewise comparatively inexpensive.