How to Rent a Cheap Apartment in Chicago

Chicago is one of the largest metropolitan cities in the U.S. and it can be challenging to find a reasonably priced apartment in a safe location. If you're relocating or moving to the Windy City, here's how to find a great apartment at low cost.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet connection
• Chicago road/travel map
• Local newspapers
• Driver's license
• Money for a security deposit

1. Pick your neighborhood. Visit the Chicago Neighborhood & City Guide to find information on different neighborhoods and local attractions. This is a valuable resource for locating specific information about each area.
2. Check listings on Chicago Lofts. Lofts are the perfect way to enjoy spacious and comfortable living in the city, and Chicago is home to hundreds of buildings with low-priced loft apartments. Filter your search easily by entering in your price range and area.
3. Check the Chicago Craigslist. Craigslist listings feature both independent landlords and apartment complex availabilities in the city. Enter a price range and number of bedrooms to filter your search.
4. Visit Move.com. Here you'll find listings with tours of available apartments, and move in specials for some of Chicago's top locations. It's easy to find a wide range of homes and apartments that fit your budget with a simple search.
5. Look at listings in local newspapers. The Chicago Reader is a popular place for apartment listings, and you can find a number of great locations. Use the search features to filter by neighborhood or zip code online for an easy search.
6. Visit Rent.com. This free search offers you a large selection of cheap apartments and also extends a bonus for signing a lease through the website. It's easy to look at floorplans, amenities lists at a glance, or take a virtual tour.

Tips & Warnings

• Online listings are updated daily, so check up on the latest availability as often as possible.
• Check the sublet/temporary section of Chicago Craigslist for last-minute deals.
• Signing a lease mid-month may get you a discount for newly available apartments.
• Be prepared to put down one month's rent as a security deposit.
• Dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago will offer extreme discounts; be cautious about the neighborhood you select.
• Always learn as much as possible about an area before moving, especially if you have young kids.