Compare the best student accommodation in Chicago, IL. Live with fellow students in properties specifically designed for student living. Talk to one of our helpful booking consultants to find out more and book your ideal home.
Explore Chicago, IL
About
Moving to the captivating city of Chicago for your studies? Home to some of the best universities in the country, the Windy City is a great choice! Student.com has a wide range of student housing in Chicago, simplifying the process of finding your ideal student home.
Whether you’re looking for shared accommodation or your own apartment, we have plenty of options listed throughout the city. Filter to find the options that meet your budget and are close to your campus – or keep reading below to learn more about student life in Chicago!
Chicago has over two dozen colleges and universities available to students. From globally renowned institutions to specialty schools offering technical and vocational courses, there’s something for everyone.
The University of Chicago (uChicago) is widely recognized as one of the best universities in the US and consistently ranks in the top 25 universities globally. Many of its courses place among the best in the country, including business, economics, English and law.
The main campus is located in Hyde Park on Chicago’s South Side, about seven miles from downtown. It’s a short ride on the train to town, so students have the option either to live close to campus or in the heart of the city.
One of uChicago’s biggest draws is its stunning 217-acre campus, which features striking Gothic architecture and ample green space. With over 400 student organizations on offer throughout the campus, there’s plenty to keep students busy, too.
Interested in studying at the university? Check out our range of uChicago housing.
Based just outside of Chicago in Evanston, Northwestern University is another prestigious university that routinely ranks among the top 10 in the US. Its courses in communications, engineering, education, and the natural sciences are especially well regarded.
With a population of over 20,000 students, the university has a strong community feel and vibrant campus life. The campus sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and plenty of space to relax.
It takes about an hour to reach downtown Chicago from the main campus via metro. For this reason, most students choose to live in Evanston or in one of Chicago’s northern neighborhoods like Rogers Park or Lincoln Park.
Considering the university for your studies? Browse our selection of apartments near Northwestern University.
With over 30,000 students, the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is the largest university in Chicago. It offers a varied study program in fields ranging from business and engineering to arts, humanities and social sciences.
The sprawling 250-acre campus is located in the Near West Side area, just a 15-minute walk from downtown. This puts students within easy reach of some of the best student housing in Chicago.
Ready to enroll at the university? Explore our range of apartments near UIC.
If you’re aspiring to a career in STEM, Illinois Institute of Technology is a great option. This specialty school offers a wide range of highly rated courses in science, business, engineering and applied technology.
Illinois Tech has several campuses, with the main one located in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood – just a few minutes south of downtown via train. Many students choose to live off campus in areas like Bridgeport, Pilsen and the South Loop.
Applying to Illinois Tech? Find your perfect student home with our selection of IIT housing.
Loyola University Chicago is a leading Catholic university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of its best-ranked courses are in law, business, nursing, communications and education.
The university’s main campus is set against the shores of Lake Michigan on Chicago’s North Side, about a 40-minute journey via train to downtown. Students opting for off-campus housing often live in Rogers Park or Edgewater – both of which are relatively affordable.
Secured your place at the university? Take the next step by browsing apartments near Loyola University Chicago.
When you finish your studies, you’ll need every spare minute to explore this thriving metropolis by the water. Whether shopping’s your thing, you’re a sports fan or you’d rather be checking out street art, Chicago has so many things for students to do.
Chicago’s cultural scene is second to none, featuring world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. For lovers of the performing arts, there’s always a chance to catch a bit of theater, live music, dance or opera.
If you’re in search of the most Instagrammable murals imaginable, we recommend starting your tour in Pilsen, where countless stunning murals line the streets. Next, head over to Logan Square, where you’ll be welcomed by the famous “Greetings from Chicago” mural.
Millennium Park is another must-visit destination. This stunning area boasts many attractions and is best known for Cloudgate – also known as ‘The Bean’ – a metallic sculpture that serves as one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
After admiring the cool and quirky art of your new city, it’s time to make the hardest decision of your day: deciding on a restaurant in this food-obsessed city. You can always grab a piece of Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or a life-changing Italian beef sandwich from Al’s Italian Beef.
If you’re up for a special treat, you can take a trip to Chicago’s South Loop and explore the city’s famous Chinatown. Here you have countless options for delightful dim sum and bubble tea at every corner!
From comedy shows and casual college bars to live jazz in intimate lounges, Chicago has a load of options for when you fancy a night out. Some of the main areas for student nightlife are Pilsen, Lakeview and Lincoln Park.
Logan Square is also known for its indie music venues, while the ultra-stylish River North has lots of plush cocktail bars and nightclubs if you’re planning a big night out. Alternatively, catch a comedy show at The Second City or a touring band at Metro.
After taking in all the energy and interesting architecture within the city – or when recovering from a big night out – we highly recommend heading over the famous and vibrant Riverwalk.
The Chicago River, which is famously known to turn bright green every year on St. Patrick’s Day, splits downtown Chicago. On either side, you’ll find an abundance of unique shops, restaurants and cafes – it’s a great area to get lost in for an afternoon!
There are several core hubs for student housing in Chicago, but where you live will largely depend on your chosen university. One thing’s for sure: no matter where you base yourself in this delightful city, each neighborhood will have something unique for you to experience.
Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park is a charming neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago – beyond the hustle and bustle of downtown. Here you’ll find cozy coffee shops, lots of bookstores and plenty of green space.
Most uChicago students choose to live here, but it’s also popular for those at Illinois Tech as well as Chicago’s smaller colleges located in the south of the city. Given its location away from downtown, student housing is generally affordable.
Located on Chicago’s North Side, Lincoln Park is a vibrant and picturesque neighborhood known for its manicured gardens and stunning lakefront views. It gets its name from Lincoln Park – the largest park in the city – which includes lakeside trails and a free zoo.
The neighborhood is a popular choice for students at Northwestern University, which sits just further north of the area. It’s also home to DePaul University – another of Chicago’s major universities.
Further north of Lincoln Park lies Rogers Park, a relaxed neighborhood about nine miles from downtown. It’s home to Loyola University Chicago’s main campus and is also just a short distance from Northwestern University in Evanston.
Owing to its location on the Far North Side of the city, Rogers Park offers some of the most affordable student housing in Chicago. That said, you can still reach downtown within 20 minutes when driving.
The cost of living for students in Chicago is generally considered affordable compared to other major US cities. Rental costs typically range from $1,100–$1,400 per month, which is cheaper than in other cities like New York, San Francisco or Boston.
Living expenses also tend to be lower or at least on par with other big cities in the US. In addition, there are lots of free things to do in Chicago, as well as discounts available to students, which can help reduce costs.
From seeing the sights at Millenium Park to touring the murals in Pilsen, there’s a lot to be enjoyed in Chicago without paying anything. Another highlight is the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is completely free for everyone.
As a student at a participating Chicago college or university, you can apply for a U-Pass, which provides unlimited rides on buses and trains operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) during the academic year.
The Chicago region is home to the second largest transit system in the country, with the bus and train services provided by the CTA making it easy to travel from your student home to campus – as well as everywhere in-between!
Chicago’s train system, known as the ’L’, is generally the quickest mode of public transport for zipping around the city. There are eight color-coded lines covering most of the city and connecting popular student areas like Lincoln Park, Hyde Park and Rogers Park.
The train system is complemented by an extensive bus network with over 130 routes, connecting neighborhoods that are not directly served by train lines. ‘Night owl’ services running late into the night are also available on core bus routes.
Found your dream student home in Chicago? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:
Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help!
Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.
Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent. Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.
Learn more about how the booking process works here.
Each apartment we list in Chicago is categorized into one of three different room types:
Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.
Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties, you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.
Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.
Student apartments in Chicago typically range from $1,100–$1,400 per month, though this varies depending on the area and the type of housing. You may be able to find cheaper options by sharing with roommates or by looking further away from downtown.
Properties built for student housing typically have a 10-12 month minimum stay. Depending on availability, landlords may make exceptions. The shorter the lease term, the higher your monthly rental rates are likely to be.
This depends on the property you rent, so check the property you are interested in. Many of the properties we list in Chicago have at least some bills included.
Depending on the property, you’ll either be able to have an in-person or virtual tour. Enquire about the rooms you’re interested in and we’ll help to get this set up for you.
Yes, you can usually book your room for the whole year and stay during the summer as well if you want. Just make sure to check with the landlord before booking.
Chicago’s major universities are quite spread out, so students tend to flock to specific areas. Most students at the University of Chicago stick to Hyde Park, while North Side neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Rogers Park are popular for students at Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago and DePaul University.
If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.
If you have any other questions, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants. They are always happy to help!
Explore Chicago, IL
Universities
Explore Chicago, IL
Moving to the captivating city of Chicago for your studies? Home to some of the best universities in the country, the Windy City is a great choice! Student.com has a wide range of student housing in Chicago, simplifying the process of finding your ideal student home.
Whether you’re looking for shared accommodation or your own apartment, we have plenty of options listed throughout the city. Filter to find the options that meet your budget and are close to your campus – or keep reading below to learn more about student life in Chicago!
Chicago has over two dozen colleges and universities available to students. From globally renowned institutions to specialty schools offering technical and vocational courses, there’s something for everyone.
The University of Chicago (uChicago) is widely recognized as one of the best universities in the US and consistently ranks in the top 25 universities globally. Many of its courses place among the best in the country, including business, economics, English and law.
The main campus is located in Hyde Park on Chicago’s South Side, about seven miles from downtown. It’s a short ride on the train to town, so students have the option either to live close to campus or in the heart of the city.
One of uChicago’s biggest draws is its stunning 217-acre campus, which features striking Gothic architecture and ample green space. With over 400 student organizations on offer throughout the campus, there’s plenty to keep students busy, too.
Interested in studying at the university? Check out our range of uChicago housing.
Based just outside of Chicago in Evanston, Northwestern University is another prestigious university that routinely ranks among the top 10 in the US. Its courses in communications, engineering, education, and the natural sciences are especially well regarded.
With a population of over 20,000 students, the university has a strong community feel and vibrant campus life. The campus sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and plenty of space to relax.
It takes about an hour to reach downtown Chicago from the main campus via metro. For this reason, most students choose to live in Evanston or in one of Chicago’s northern neighborhoods like Rogers Park or Lincoln Park.
Considering the university for your studies? Browse our selection of apartments near Northwestern University.
With over 30,000 students, the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) is the largest university in Chicago. It offers a varied study program in fields ranging from business and engineering to arts, humanities and social sciences.
The sprawling 250-acre campus is located in the Near West Side area, just a 15-minute walk from downtown. This puts students within easy reach of some of the best student housing in Chicago.
Ready to enroll at the university? Explore our range of apartments near UIC.
If you’re aspiring to a career in STEM, Illinois Institute of Technology is a great option. This specialty school offers a wide range of highly rated courses in science, business, engineering and applied technology.
Illinois Tech has several campuses, with the main one located in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood – just a few minutes south of downtown via train. Many students choose to live off campus in areas like Bridgeport, Pilsen and the South Loop.
Applying to Illinois Tech? Find your perfect student home with our selection of IIT housing.
Loyola University Chicago is a leading Catholic university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of its best-ranked courses are in law, business, nursing, communications and education.
The university’s main campus is set against the shores of Lake Michigan on Chicago’s North Side, about a 40-minute journey via train to downtown. Students opting for off-campus housing often live in Rogers Park or Edgewater – both of which are relatively affordable.
Secured your place at the university? Take the next step by browsing apartments near Loyola University Chicago.
When you finish your studies, you’ll need every spare minute to explore this thriving metropolis by the water. Whether shopping’s your thing, you’re a sports fan or you’d rather be checking out street art, Chicago has so many things for students to do.
Chicago’s cultural scene is second to none, featuring world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. For lovers of the performing arts, there’s always a chance to catch a bit of theater, live music, dance or opera.
If you’re in search of the most Instagrammable murals imaginable, we recommend starting your tour in Pilsen, where countless stunning murals line the streets. Next, head over to Logan Square, where you’ll be welcomed by the famous “Greetings from Chicago” mural.
Millennium Park is another must-visit destination. This stunning area boasts many attractions and is best known for Cloudgate – also known as ‘The Bean’ – a metallic sculpture that serves as one of the city’s most iconic symbols.
After admiring the cool and quirky art of your new city, it’s time to make the hardest decision of your day: deciding on a restaurant in this food-obsessed city. You can always grab a piece of Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or a life-changing Italian beef sandwich from Al’s Italian Beef.
If you’re up for a special treat, you can take a trip to Chicago’s South Loop and explore the city’s famous Chinatown. Here you have countless options for delightful dim sum and bubble tea at every corner!
From comedy shows and casual college bars to live jazz in intimate lounges, Chicago has a load of options for when you fancy a night out. Some of the main areas for student nightlife are Pilsen, Lakeview and Lincoln Park.
Logan Square is also known for its indie music venues, while the ultra-stylish River North has lots of plush cocktail bars and nightclubs if you’re planning a big night out. Alternatively, catch a comedy show at The Second City or a touring band at Metro.
After taking in all the energy and interesting architecture within the city – or when recovering from a big night out – we highly recommend heading over the famous and vibrant Riverwalk.
The Chicago River, which is famously known to turn bright green every year on St. Patrick’s Day, splits downtown Chicago. On either side, you’ll find an abundance of unique shops, restaurants and cafes – it’s a great area to get lost in for an afternoon!
There are several core hubs for student housing in Chicago, but where you live will largely depend on your chosen university. One thing’s for sure: no matter where you base yourself in this delightful city, each neighborhood will have something unique for you to experience.
Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park is a charming neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago – beyond the hustle and bustle of downtown. Here you’ll find cozy coffee shops, lots of bookstores and plenty of green space.
Most uChicago students choose to live here, but it’s also popular for those at Illinois Tech as well as Chicago’s smaller colleges located in the south of the city. Given its location away from downtown, student housing is generally affordable.
Located on Chicago’s North Side, Lincoln Park is a vibrant and picturesque neighborhood known for its manicured gardens and stunning lakefront views. It gets its name from Lincoln Park – the largest park in the city – which includes lakeside trails and a free zoo.
The neighborhood is a popular choice for students at Northwestern University, which sits just further north of the area. It’s also home to DePaul University – another of Chicago’s major universities.
Further north of Lincoln Park lies Rogers Park, a relaxed neighborhood about nine miles from downtown. It’s home to Loyola University Chicago’s main campus and is also just a short distance from Northwestern University in Evanston.
Owing to its location on the Far North Side of the city, Rogers Park offers some of the most affordable student housing in Chicago. That said, you can still reach downtown within 20 minutes when driving.
The cost of living for students in Chicago is generally considered affordable compared to other major US cities. Rental costs typically range from $1,100–$1,400 per month, which is cheaper than in other cities like New York, San Francisco or Boston.
Living expenses also tend to be lower or at least on par with other big cities in the US. In addition, there are lots of free things to do in Chicago, as well as discounts available to students, which can help reduce costs.
From seeing the sights at Millenium Park to touring the murals in Pilsen, there’s a lot to be enjoyed in Chicago without paying anything. Another highlight is the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is completely free for everyone.
As a student at a participating Chicago college or university, you can apply for a U-Pass, which provides unlimited rides on buses and trains operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) during the academic year.
The Chicago region is home to the second largest transit system in the country, with the bus and train services provided by the CTA making it easy to travel from your student home to campus – as well as everywhere in-between!
Chicago’s train system, known as the ’L’, is generally the quickest mode of public transport for zipping around the city. There are eight color-coded lines covering most of the city and connecting popular student areas like Lincoln Park, Hyde Park and Rogers Park.
The train system is complemented by an extensive bus network with over 130 routes, connecting neighborhoods that are not directly served by train lines. ‘Night owl’ services running late into the night are also available on core bus routes.
Found your dream student home in Chicago? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:
Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help!
Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.
Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent. Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.
Learn more about how the booking process works here.
Each apartment we list in Chicago is categorized into one of three different room types:
Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.
Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties, you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.
Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.
Student apartments in Chicago typically range from $1,100–$1,400 per month, though this varies depending on the area and the type of housing. You may be able to find cheaper options by sharing with roommates or by looking further away from downtown.
Properties built for student housing typically have a 10-12 month minimum stay. Depending on availability, landlords may make exceptions. The shorter the lease term, the higher your monthly rental rates are likely to be.
This depends on the property you rent, so check the property you are interested in. Many of the properties we list in Chicago have at least some bills included.
Depending on the property, you’ll either be able to have an in-person or virtual tour. Enquire about the rooms you’re interested in and we’ll help to get this set up for you.
Yes, you can usually book your room for the whole year and stay during the summer as well if you want. Just make sure to check with the landlord before booking.
Chicago’s major universities are quite spread out, so students tend to flock to specific areas. Most students at the University of Chicago stick to Hyde Park, while North Side neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Rogers Park are popular for students at Northwestern University, Loyola University Chicago and DePaul University.
If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.
If you have any other questions, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants. They are always happy to help!